Did BCCI Approach Sri Lanka Legend for India Head Coach Job? Report Clarifies
20.05.2024: The buzz surrounding India’s next men’s cricket head coach has been intense ever since the BCCI announced on May 13 that it was seeking applications to replace Rahul Dravid. The deadline for applications was set for May 27, sparking widespread speculation about potential candidates.
Recent reports have suggested that names like Gautam Gambhir and Mahela Jayawardene were in consideration for the position, which will span from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027. However, reliable sources have clarified that Mahela Jayawardene, the former Sri Lanka captain, has neither applied nor been approached for the top job. Jayawardene is currently content in his role with the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise, where he serves as the global head of performance. In this capacity, he oversees coaching and scouting for MI franchises across various global T20 leagues, including SA20 and ILT20. Additionally, he has worked as a consultant for the Sri Lanka men’s team in recent World Cup campaigns.
Another name that surfaced was former Australia head coach Justin Langer. However, Langer has ruled himself out of contention. Speaking after his stint with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024 concluded on May 17, Langer acknowledged the appeal of the role but cited the timing as a key factor in his decision.
“It would almost be the biggest job in cricket – being the head coach of the Indian cricket team. The volume of cricket and the expectation are immense. It would be a great challenge, a lot of fun, and a wonderful opportunity to win ICC titles,” Langer said.
“But timing is crucial. I spent around four years with the Australian cricket team, which was all-encompassing and exhausting. Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri would likely agree on the intense pressure to win. The next person to take on this role will certainly have a massive project ahead,” he added.
As the BCCI continues its search for Dravid’s successor, the cricketing world remains keenly interested in who will take up one of the most high-profile coaching roles in the sport.