On Wednesday, November 29, the BCCI declared the extension of contracts for the coaching staff of the Indian men’s team, led by head coach Rahul Dravid.
Although the duration wasn’t explicitly stated, it is anticipated that Dravid, along with Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach), and T Dilip (fielding coach), will remain in their roles at least until the T20 World Cup in June 2024.
The mentioned coaching team concluded their contracts after the ODI World Cup, where India, despite winning ten consecutive games leading up to the final, lost to Australia.
Presently, VVS Laxman is in charge of the Indian team led by Suryakumar Yadav during the ongoing T20I series against Australia. In December, Dravid and his team are set to embark on a tour to South Africa, encompassing three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests.
Before and during this period, especially leading up to the T20 World Cup and possibly beyond, the coaching staff will face several challenges and questions. Three significant aspects that Dravid needs to address as he continues in his role as India’s coach:
#3 The T20I prospects for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
After T20 World Cup 2022, Rohit and Virat are absent due to workload, sparking speculation about their role for the 2024 World Cup. With Hardik leading and young talents like Jaiswal, Gill, Gaikwad, and Singh emerging, Dravid needs to decide the team for optimal preparation.
To avoid regression, clarity is needed on Rohit and Virat’s importance for the upcoming title quest, requiring clear communication from Dravid and selectors.
#2 How to kickstart the transition of the Test team?
India started the 2023-25 World Test Championship with a 1-0 win in the West Indies. The upcoming challenge is a two-match series in South Africa, where India has never won a Test series. Despite missing a chance in South Africa in 2021-22, concerns linger about the team’s transition.
Pujara and Rahane faced drops but were recalled, with Rahane becoming vice-captain despite batting struggles. Challenges include a five-match series against England and a five-game tour to Australia in late 2024.
Aging batting lineup, Pant’s likely absence in South Africa, and limited experience of Jaiswal and Gill in seam-friendly conditions raise concerns. A smooth batting transition is crucial, especially with aging Ashwin and Jadeja, presenting another challenge for Dravid.
#1 The path to leadership
If Rohit misses the T20 World Cup, Pandya should lead, but it raises questions about the next long-term captain and split-captaincy. Pant’s return needs careful handling, and potential candidates like Rahul, Iyer, and Bumrah exist.
Grooming a young leader like Gill is possible. The uncertainty in India’s captaincy since 2022 shows the plethora of options. Post-ODI World Cup brings challenges. Dravid’s coaching duration is uncertain, but transitioning should start now.
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