India coach deadline closes; no top foreign applicants, VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir not interested.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah emphasized the importance of appointing someone familiar with the domestic structure for the Indian men’s cricket team chief coach position. Despite the deadline for applications ending, both the BCCI and the favored candidate, Gautam Gambhir, remained silent on the matter. With Gambhir’s recent success guiding Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL trophy, speculation around his candidacy has increased. However, no notable foreign candidates have applied, aligning with the BCCI’s preference for someone with domestic experience. While VVS Laxman was a primary target, he seems disinterested in a full-time role due to commitments at the National Cricket Academy. The BCCI may take more time before making a decision, considering the upcoming World T20 and subsequent tours to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Additionally, Gambhir’s strong bond with KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan and the opinion of senior Indian players currently in New York are factors to consider regarding his potential appointment as Rahul Dravid’s replacement.