Fri. Mar 29th, 2024
Phil Simmons

The resignation of Kumble has opened the door of opportunities for many people. All are desperately trying to be the next head coach of Indian cricket team. Previously, the CAC was said to interview the candidates who have applied before the last deadline. However, the deadline was extended till 9th July and BCCI is allowing new applications and more interesting and big names are expected to join.

Among the applied candidates, Ravi Shastri and Virender Sehwag being considered as the strongest applicants, but a new name in the list has made this race more interesting. According to the sources, former West Indies coach, Phil Simmons has applied for the position. According to a BCCI official, stepping down of Anil Kumble has attracted the interest of some people as he will now not be the obvious choice for the post. The official said, “Shastri and Simmons both have applied. You can expect a few more interesting names to come in over the next couple of days. The reason for the rise in interest is the fact that now the candidates are sure of their position and the openness of the playing field. Earlier, most thought that Kumble would be handed an extension and it was futile to apply. But now that Kumble is out of the race, the candidates feel that they have a chance. You have to realise that it is a coveted job and Indian cricket is going through a good phase and this young team will be world beaters in the time to come.”

Facts also say that Virat Kohli is in favour of Ravi Shastri being the coach, and had spoken to CAC about it. However, Ravi Shastri was in no mood to apply for the job as he was rejected once until Sachin Tendulkar asked him to do so. Still, he has made it clear that he will speak to the BCCI or CAC on this matter only if he is given a guarantee that he will be handed the job.

On the other hand, the new entry in the list, Simmons has come with an impressive resume. He was the coach of West Indies when the team won the World T20 2016. However, the differences between him and WICB made him leave the job.

According to BCCI president, CK Khanna, India’s new coach will be appointed before Indian team’s Sri Lanka tour that will begin in late July. Though Shastri is being considered a strong contender, it may not be as easy for him due to his poor relations with CAC member, Sourav Ganguly.

By Naman