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Anil Kumble may yet again be approached for the India head coach's post once Ravi Shastri's term comes to an end post the T20 World Cup this year. The Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI are also considering former India batter VVS Laxman for the post.
Notably, India's all-time highest wicket-taker in Tests and ODIs, Kumble, served as the coach of the Indian team for a year between 2016-17 when the Cricket Advisory Committee headed by Sachin Tendulkar, Laxman and Ganguly had appointed him, replacing Shastri. However, a reportedly bitter fall-out with India captain Virat Kohli led to Kumble giving his resignation after the Champions Trophy final loss against Pakistan.
While Kumble has the experience of coaching the national team and is also currently part of the Indian Premier League franchise Punjab Kings' coaching staff, Laxman, has been a mentor of the Sunrisers Hyderabad for some years now. However, Kumble is seemingly the favourite at this stage despite Laxman being in contention.
Anil Kumble's exit as India coach needs course correction: BCCI Source
"Anil Kumble's exit needs course correction. The manner in which the CoA succumbed to the pressure of Kohli and removed him, wasn't the best example set. However it also depends on whether Kumble or Laxman are ready to apply for the job," a BCCI source close to the development was quoted by PTI.
Meanwhile, Kohli has recently announced that he will quit as the T20 captain after the World Cup in UAE. For the BCCI, a renowned India coach seems to be the first priority as of now with an overseas coach being a second priority.
Vikram Rathour doesn't have the stature to become a head coach
"The criteria for BCCI's coach's job will be such that only a select few with very good record as player as well as experience of coaching/mentorship can apply for the top job," the source said.
When quizzed if current batting coach Vikram Rathour is also in contention, he responded: "He can apply if he wishes to but he doesn't have the stature to become a head coach of the Indian cricket team."
"He is at best an assistant coach. However, when we select the new coach, he will have a team all by himself. So let's wait and watch," the source concluded as per the same PTI report.