Rahul Dravid's tenure as India's head coach extended as BCCI confirms
Following the conclusion of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the BCCI has confirmed the extension of head coach Rahul Dravid's contract, along with that of the support staff. Dravid's previous contract had reached its end with the tournament's conclusion
New Delhi, November 29: Rahul Dravid's tenure as India's head coach persists, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the extension of contracts for Team India's senior men coaching staff on Wednesday. Alongside Dravid, the contracts for other support staff members—batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip—have also been prolonged. Although the exact duration wasn't specified by the BCCI, it is anticipated that Dravid will helm the team at least until the T20 World Cup in 2024.
While the formalities of the contract extension are being ironed out, the BCCI intends for Dravid, the current head coach, to guide the team during the South African tour. This move comes on the heels of Dravid's successful coaching stint, culminating in India's runner-up positions in both the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup over the past two years. Many within the BCCI view retaining Dravid as a means to maintain continuity within the senior team.
According to a senior BCCI official speaking anonymously to PTI, discussions between BCCI Secretary Jay Shah and Dravid have taken place in recent days regarding the new contract. While specifics of the contract are yet to be finalized, the BCCI is keen on Dravid joining the Test team in South Africa.
The official indicated that although the contract details are pending, Dravid might join the team during the ODIs even if he misses the T20I series, underscoring the significance of his presence during the Test series.
Additionally, VVS Laxman might step in to coach the team during the initial phase of the series, allowing him to gain insight into the 'A' team and its dynamics. However, Laxman's involvement with multiple responsibilities, including work at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and forthcoming commitments like the U19 World Cup and the 'A' team tour to South Africa, might limit his engagement with the senior team.
Dravid, despite having multiple lucrative offers from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises for roles such as Team Director or Team Mentor, is yet to confirm his decision. The potential offers from the IPL come with substantial financial rewards but may entail lesser involvement compared to his current role with the national team.
While Dravid weighs his options, his decision might hinge on the cohesive work achieved by his coaching team, consisting of batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip.
The extension of Dravid's tenure raises questions about its duration. It remains to be seen whether the extension will be for a year, potentially aligning with the next T20 World Cup, or for a longer period, possibly until 2025, encompassing the ongoing World Test Championship cycle and the Champions Trophy, presently scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan.