The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering Stephen Fleming, former New Zealand captain and current coach of the Chennai Super Kings, as the potential Head Coach for the Indian Men’s Team. This move comes as the tenure of the present coach, Rahul Dravid, is set to conclude at the end of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024. If appointed, Fleming would serve a term of three and a half years, concluding on December 31, 2027.
Fleming boasts a notable record in the coaching arena, particularly with the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has led the franchise to five titles. His tenure of 16 years with the team makes him the longest-serving coach in the IPL. With his extensive experience and familiarity with Indian players during his coaching stint, Fleming emerges as a potential candidate for the high-profile position with the Indian cricket team.
The responsibilities associated with the role of Head Coach are significant. The chosen candidate will be tasked with developing a world-class cricket team capable of achieving sustained success across various conditions and formats. Additionally, they are expected to inspire both current and future generations of cricketers and stakeholders with their approach to the game.
Furthermore, the Head Coach will hold overall responsibility for the performance and management of the India Men’s team across all three formats of the game. This entails leading a team of specialist coaches and support staff, defining their roles, monitoring their performance, and facilitating their ongoing development.
Dravid has the option to re-apply for the coaching role
Regarding Rahul Dravid, although his tenure as coach was initially slated to end after the World Cup 2023, it was extended by five months. While Dravid has the option to re-apply for the coaching role, it appears unlikely. Another contender for the position is former India batter, VVS Laxman. Laxman has previously served as head coach of the Indian team during Dravid’s sabbatical and was part of the coaching staff that guided the Indian team to a gold medal in the Asian Games 2023.
