The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) is in the process of selecting a new head coach for the upcoming 2024-25 domestic season, and former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait has emerged as a leading candidate. Tait, who previously served as the bowling coach for Pakistan, is among the ten applicants vying for the role.
Tait’s experience with international teams, particularly his recent stint with Pakistan, makes him a strong contender for the Kerala position as per OnManorama. If selected, Tait would be coaching under the captaincy of Sanju Samson, the Kerala Cricket Team’s skipper, adding an intriguing dynamic to the team’s leadership.
Kerala Cricket search for new coach
The search for a new head coach began after M. Venkataramana, who took over from Tinu Yohannan for the 2023-24 season, stepped down due to personal reasons. The KCA swiftly responded by inviting applications, with a deadline set for August 15. The coaching role is particularly significant this year, as Kerala looks to bounce back after failing to qualify for the knockout round of the Ranji Trophy last season.
Storied History of Coaching Talent
Kerala has seen a variety of high-profile coaches in recent years. Notably, former Australian cricketer Dav Whatmore, who led Sri Lanka to their 1996 World Cup victory, coached Kerala to the Ranji Trophy semifinals during the 2018-19 season. The next head coach will be expected to build on this legacy and guide the team to greater success in the coming years.
Women’s Team coaching appointments
In parallel with the men’s team, the KCA has also made significant appointments for the women’s team for the 2024-25 season. Former India internationals Devika Palshikar and Rumeli Dhar will be leading the Kerala women’s team. Devika, who has previously served as an assistant coach for the Indian and Bangladeshi women’s teams, and Rumeli, who recently coached the Odisha women’s team, bring a wealth of experience to their roles.
New Additions to Kerala squad
As Kerala prepares for the new season, the team is also seeing changes in its player lineup. Former Tamil Nadu cricketer Baba Aparajith is set to join Kerala, replacing Karnataka’s Shreyas Gopal as one of the two outstation players. Aparajith, an all-rounder with experience from the 2012 U-19 World Cup-winning Indian team, is expected to bring versatility and skill to the squad.
Meanwhile, Jalaj Saxena, the Madhya Pradesh and India A all-rounder who has been with Kerala since the 2016-17 season, will continue with the team. However, Saxena, now 37, has been struggling with his batting form and may see limited participation in the one-day and T20 squads.
What’s ahead for KCA?
With the possibility of Shaun Tait taking the reins as head coach and the addition of experienced players like Baba Aparajith, the Kerala cricket team is gearing up for a challenging yet promising season. The upcoming decisions by the KCA will be crucial in shaping the team’s performance and ambitions for the 2024-25 domestic cricket season.
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