Ankit Chavan, once banned for life due to involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal, has been appointed as the head coach of the Mumbai Under-14 cricket team. The Mumbai Cricket Association’s decision has surprised many, given Chavan’s past.
He was one of the three Rajasthan Royals players banned along with S Sreesanth and Ajit Chandila. Although a Delhi trial court acquitted them in 2015 due to lack of evidence, the BCCI continued enforcing the ban. It wasn’t until 2021 that Chavan’s ban was shortened to seven years, finally allowing him to re-enter the professional cricketing space.
Second Chance in Cricket and New Coaching Role
With the reduction in his ban, Chavan returned to competitive cricket two years ago. Despite being away from top-level cricket, he stayed active by playing for the Karnataka Sports Club in Mumbai. Alongside his playing duties, he prepared for a coaching career by completing the Level-1 coaching exam.
Now, his focus shifts entirely to mentoring young players. Ankit Chavan called this role his “second innings” and said he’s ready to guide budding cricketers. His goal is to strengthen the basic techniques of the Under-14 players and help them grow. Coaching, he said, has always been something he aimed for, and he is aware of the responsibility that comes with shaping young talent.
MCA Coaching Announcements and Continued Support for Omkar Salvi
Along with Chavan’s appointment, the Mumbai Cricket Association revealed several other coaching roles. Omkar Salvi, who had an impressive season with the Ranji team, will remain its head coach. His coaching skills also earned him a role with Royal Challengers Bangalore as their bowling coach.
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Sandeep Patil continues to serve as the head of the selection committee. These appointments show the MCA’s trust in experienced figures, even those with controversial pasts, as long as they meet certain qualifications and show commitment.
With Chavan now stepping into a coaching role, all eyes will be on how well he handles the responsibility and whether he can put his troubled past behind him to contribute positively to the development of young cricketers.
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