Former India team director Ravi Shastri is set to apply for the post of India’s head coach left vacant following Anil Kumble’s unceremonious exit last week, The New Indian Express reported.
“Yes, I have decided to apply for the job,” was quoted as saying.
The report also stated that Shastri had rubbished claims that he would apply only after being assured of getting the job.
Kumble had stepped down after admitting to differences with skipper Virat Kohli. The BCCI had sought fresh applications for the post with Kumble’s contract set to expire following the ICC Champions Trophy that concluded last week.
According to reports, Kohli and Kumble were not on talking terms for months together. Kumble, while stepping down, though had stated that he had respected the skipper’s role and maintained
Shastri, who was made team director after former coach Duncan Fletcher departed, had made way for Kumble last year. Kumble had a successful stint with India that saw them win nearly everything except the the Champions Trophy.
Until now, BCCI has officially received five applications. Former India opener Virender Sehwag and former Australia cricketer Tom Moody have already tossed their hat in the ring.
The BCCI’s Cricket Advisory Committee, that includes India stalwarts Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman has been tasked to find Kumble’s replacement.
The CAC had reportedly met Kohli after the Champions Trophy final to hear his side. A decision was taken to allow Kumble an extension for the ongoing Windies series, before the committee took a final call.
Kumble, though, did not travel with the team to West Indies, and issued a statement that he was stepping down. It is understood that Kohli and Shastri enjoyed a great relationship when Shastri was the team director. However, it reports have to be believed, Ganguly and Shastri have been at odds in the past and these old issues could prove a hurdle for the latter’s re-entry into the Indian setup.