Ravi Shastri applies for the Indian head coach position officially

Retired Indian international Ravi Shastri has made himself available for the Indian head coach post officially, as he handed in his application for the job, according to BCCI sources. Shastri had previously said that he will try his luck for the second time in grabbing the opportunity and the move was expected sooner than later. The news was confirmed by the Times of India through a Tweet from their official handle on Twitter.

Ravi Shastri’s previous term as the Indian head coach was a highly successful one, but his contract was not extended by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) after its completion. Anil Kumble was brought in as the replacement but the legendary leg-spinner suffered the same fate as Shastri. Kumble tasted gigantic success as the coach but could only stay in the position for a year due to a clash with skipper Virat Kohli.

Complications between the two arose during the recently concluded Champions Trophy which led to the deterioration of their relationship. Virat Kohli demanded a new face at the helm and Kumble resigned with dignity. However, Ravi Shastri’s relationship with the captain is believed to be a smooth one which might work in favour of the active commentator.

With the board allowing Virat Kohli to have his say in the selection process, Shastri stands a favourite in the race. However, the CAC is not to inclined towards Shastri with Sachin Tendulkar being the only one in his support. Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman, the other two pillars of the CAC, did not vote for the 55-year-old last time which led to his termination.

Other options:

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag is another strong contender to Ravi Shastri. The destructive batsman’s aggressive approach towards the game is a plus point and matches that of Anil Kumble who brought results for the nation. Lalchand Rajput, Richard Pybus and Tom Moody have also submitted their resumes. The CAC is determined to announce the new Indian head coach on 10^th July, before the team’s Sri Lanka tour.

#JUSTIN@RaviShastriOfc has formally applied for the head coach of Indian men's cricket team, says @BCCI sources – ANI

— TOI Sports (@toisports) July 3, 2017