Reports - Rahul Dravid likely to coach India in home series against New Zealand

As per reports, Rahul Dravid could take over as India coach for the Test series against New Zealand. The teams are set to cross swords in two Tests after the T20 International Cup. Notably, the current coaching setup, including head coach Ravi Shastri will step down after the showpiece event and the appointment of a new coach will be done ahead of the India tour of South Africa in December. Earlier, there were speculations that BCCI may ask Ravi Shastri and his allies to extend their contracts till the New Zealand series. However, as per recent developments, the BCCI is keen on roping Dravid as interim coach for the series.

Rahul Dravid was reportedly approached for a full-time role as well but the former skipper denied saying he wants to work with the youngsters at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Later, names of Anil Kumble and VVS Laxman were also doing rounds for the new India coach but both reportedly showed no interest. While several foreign coaches like Tom Moody have expressed their interest in coaching team India, the BCCI is keen on hiring an Indian coach.

They have not yet officially asked for applications for the India coach. Explaining the delay, a BCCI source said they want the best candidate to agree for the role. “We wanted the candidate whom we feel is best suited for the job to agree first (to apply for the job). We don’t want a situation where we get applications but no one is seen as ideal. It will be embarrassing for the board and for the candidates too. So it’s better to find a suitable candidate first, till then Dravid can be the interim coach.”

Dravid had earlier coached a young India team on the tour of Sri Lanka. India managed to beat Sri Lanka in the ODI series but lost the T20I series 2-1.