CHENNAI: Anil Kumble and Ravi Shastri have emerged main contenders for the chief coach’s position for the Indian cricket team, according to early signals emerging from the interview of candidates by the BCCI’s cricket advisory committee in Kolkata on Tuesday. Kumble is understood to have the backing of Sourav Ganguly, who is part of the advisory committee, alongside Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman. Pravin Amre and Lalchand Rajput were the other Indian candidates to make presentations before the panel.
Kumble, who appeared in person before the panel, is learnt to have made a lengthy presentation which included a road map till the 2019 World Cup. The day’s proceedings were coordinated by former BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale. Kumble seems to have an edge because he is young and well versed with the modern day demands of the game. Shastri, who appeared through a Skype call, has pitched for continuity if given charge for a second term and presented a detailed account of improvements made by the team under his stewardship.
Australians Tom Moody, Stuart Law and New Zealand’s Andy Moles also made presentations, but BCCI sources strongly indicated that the new coach will be Indian. Contrary to belief, selection committee chairman Sandeep Patil wasn’t invited to appear before the committee.
The BCCI working committee is expected to announce the name on June 24.