Former Indian pacer L Balaji is of the opinion that a one-year term is not enough for a coach. Balaji was indicating towards, Anil Kumble”s coaching tenure, this, after Kumble was, was given a one-year tenure with team India.
Anil Kumble who was appointed as the Indian team coach last June did a great job by winning all the Test series against New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and England. In a short span, under his watchful eyes, India became the number 1 ranked Test team in the world. However, Balaji felt a one year tenure is too short a time for any coach to put his plans into practice and find rewards.
Ravi Shastri has been now appointed as the head coach of Indian team till World Cup 2019 to be held in England. The all-rounder will be with the Indian team for 24 months. With big overseas tours coming up for India, it is great that CAC decided to go with Ravi Shastri as his rapport with him is great.
“I think 12 months is a very short period for any coach. They need at least 18-24 months to build a team. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has done the correct thing by appointing the coaching panel till 2019 ICC World Cup,” Balaji, told HT on Thursday.
Balaji has represented India in 8 test matches, 30 One day Internationals, and 5 T20 matches. He was considered a good bowler taking 27 wickets in Tests, 34 wickets in ODI and 10 wickets in T20 matches. Currently, he is the coach of Tamil Nadu team in Ranji Trophy, also appointed as bowling coach Kolkata Knight Riders franchise.
The Indian pace battery is impressive with the likes of Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammad Shami, Ishant Sharma all have improved as bowlers and would be a big threat to the teams when playing in overseas conditions where the pitches help the Pacers.
“Our bench strength is really good. We have produced some really fit guys. Umesh Yadav has been playing non-stop cricket without injuring himself, despite bowling fast, which is a great sign,” added Balaji
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has also been really impressive. The fitness and ability of today’s bowlers are very good and we have strong, skillful bowlers,” said Balaji.
The former Indian pacer seems to be impressed by Jasprit Bumrah. Balaji praised the young Indian pacer and added, that day is not far when he will be playing Test matches for India. “I am sure Jasprit will play Tests in future. His ability, control of the ball is very good and has good variation too. Our lot – me, Irfan Pathan, Ajit Agarkar had a lot of variation which I see in these guys like Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami and Bumrah. For seam bowling you need a different kind of skill set,” added Balaji,
India will play their next Test series against Sri Lanka starting from 26th July. Their biggest test would be facing South Africa in their own conditions later this year.