Ponting, Fleming, Gambhir or Laxman, who will be the next coach of Team India? Here's what we know

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially opened the doors for applicants vying for the coveted position of head coach for the men's national cricket team. This move comes as Rahul Dravid's tenure is poised to conclude following the T20 World Cup 2024. Among the names surfacing as potential replacements are 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 may opt for a foreign head coach after almost a decade. Notable successes under previous foreign coaches like John Wright and Gary Kirsten make this prospect enticing. Wright steered India to the finals of the 2003 ODI World Cup, while Kirsten masterminded India's triumph in the 2011 ODI World Cup after a 28-year hiatus. The deadline for coach applications is May 27, setting the stage for pivotal decisions in Indian cricket.

Here is a list of probable names who may get the coveted post:

Ricky Ponting: Ricky Ponting, who boasts a successful coaching stint with Delhi Capitals since 2018, has prior experience with Mumbai Indians, aiding them to an IPL title in 2015. With his extensive involvement in Indian cricket, Ponting emerges as a strong contender for the role.

Stephen Fleming: Likewise, Stephen Fleming, the current coach of Chennai Super Kings, is being considered by the BCCI. However, responses from their respective sides have been lukewarm, given the demanding commitment required, spanning about 10 months annually.

If Fleming or Ponting appointed as India's head coach, they must end their coaching contract with IPL franchise.

VVS Laxman: VVS Laxman, renowned former Indian cricketer and head of the National Cricket Academy, had emerged as a potential successor to Rahul Dravid. But reports indicate that VVS Laxman may not throw his hat into the ring. It's speculated that the BCCI prefers maintaining the existing setup at the NCA.

Gautam Gambhir: Gautam Gambhir, renowned for his tactical acumen and man-management skills, could also be a contender. However, his emotional ties with Kolkata Knight Riders and potential conflicts with certain players may influence his decision.

Justin Langer: Australian coach Justin Langer, known for his disciplined approach, hasn't ruled out the possibility either, citing the mental and physical demands of coaching in India.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has dismissed the notion of separate coaches for different formats, signaling a preference for a single candidate capable of extensive travel over the next three and a half years.

Meanwhile, Dravid, whose current contract expires after the T20 World Cup, retains the option to reapply.

With applications open until May 27, a day after the IPL final, indications point toward the BCCI favoring a fresh face for the position.