The hunt for Team Indiaโs next head coach ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup is underway. Notable figures such as VVS Laxman and Anil Kumble are among the contenders.
However, in a surprising twist, everyday cricket enthusiasts are also being given the chance to apply for the role of head coach for the menโs senior cricket team.
Following the BCCIโs nationwide call for applications, cricket fans have enthusiastically responded, filling out the open-to-all Google Forms with the same fervor as a last-over sixer.
Indian Cricket Team head coach role 2024 how to apply, application Google Form link, requirements, eligiblity and salary per year
The BCCI shared details of the job description and the Head Coach of Team India (Senior Men) will be based in Mumbai for 3.5 years, from July 1st, 2024, to December 31st, 2027.
Candidates should have experience of playing in a minimum of 30 Test matches or 50 ODIs or having coached a full member test-playing nation for at least two years. A BCCI level 3 certification or equivalent is required and candidates should be below 60.
While the pay is negotiable for the role as per the BCCI depending on experience, Rahul Dravid is currently being paid Rs.12 crore per year as the head coach. Those interested can apply via a Google Form over here.
๐จ News ๐จ
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invites applications for the position of Head Coach (Senior Men)
Read More ๐ฝ #TeamIndiahttps://t.co/5GNlQwgWu0 pic.twitter.com/KY0WKXnrsK
— BCCI (@BCCI) May 13, 2024
Social Media User’s Reactionย
For the unfamiliar, cocial media is buzzing with screenshots of form submissions, filled with witty comments as fans fantasize about becoming the next coach.
One hopeful applicant joked, โSubmitted my application, cannot wait to coach Team India.โ Another optimist added, โJust sent in my application. With my expert coaching, India will lift the 2027 World Cup in South Africa.โ
Another penned, โJust applied for head coach of the Indian team. Wish me luck. P.S: who tf invites job applications via Google forms?โ
Potential Candidates Listย
Potential replacements include Chennai Super Kings’ coach Stephen Fleming, Delhi Capitals’ Ricky Ponting, Australian coach Justin Langer, Gautam Gambhir, and NCA head coach VVS Laxman.
Speculation suggests that India might choose a foreign head coach after nearly a decade. The successes of previous foreign coaches like John Wright and Gary Kirsten make this an attractive option.
What Did the BCCI Say?ย
In the BCCIโs recent announcement, it was stated that the deadline for applications is May 27, 2024. The selection process will involve a comprehensive review of applications.
The official statement of the BCCI reads, โThe selection process will include a thorough review of applications, followed by personal interviews and assessments of shortlisted candidatesโ
The ideal candidate must be prepared to meet the demands and pressures of managing high-profile athletes. Additionally, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah disclosed that Rahul Dravidโs tenure as Indiaโs head coach will end after the upcoming T20 World Cup.
In addition Jay Shah also revealed that the BCCI is looking for a long term coach hopefully for โthree years.โ
For the unversed, Dravid assumed the role of head coach for the senior menโs cricket team in 2021. Following the 2023 World Cup, his contract was extended.
Under his leadership, Team India reached the final of the 50-over World Cup in 2023. He will continue to coach the team through the tournament, after which he will need to reapply for the role. The board is also open to considering foreign coaches for the position.
ALSO READ: Dead By Daylight (DBD) 8th anniversary 2024 new killer, survivor, game modes, maps and collabs