The Board of Control for Cricket in India on Thursday posted a job opening for the position of head coach of the men’s cricket team. Interested candidates have been asked to submit their applications by May 31. “Shortlisted candidates will be called upon to present their credentials and plans, in person for further evaluation,” the BCCI release said.
The process for the selection of a new coach has been initiated because the term of the current incumbent, Anil Kumble, ends with the conclusion of the Champions Trophy in June, the release added. However, the BCCI clarified that Kumble “will be a direct entry for the [selection] process”.
A nominee of the BCCI’s Committee of Administrators will oversee the entire selection process along with the Cricket Advisory Committee, which includes former players Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman, to “ensure a fair and completely transparent process”. The CAC had selected Kumble as head coach in June last year.
The decision to invite fresh applications for the post comes as a surprise. Since he was appointed head coach less than a year ago, India have tasted a lot of success, with Test series victories against West Indies, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh and Australia.
In the 17 Tests that India played during the 2016-’17 season, they won 12 under Kumble’s guidance. The only defeat came against Australia on a vicious turner at Pune. In the two One-day International series that were played under Kumble, hosts India beat New Zealand 3-2 and England 2-1 respectively.
Earlier, reports had said that Kumble’s contract extension will be discussed following the Champions Trophy. However, with the BCCI inviting fresh applications, it seems the board wants to give itself some more options.