In a recent development, former India Test batsman Gautam Gambhir has proposed Jonty Rhodes for the position of fielding coach for the Indian cricket team. This recommendation comes as part of Gambhir’s broader vision for the team, should he be appointed as the head coach.
CAC conducts India head coach interviews
The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) conducted interviews for the head coach position in Mumbai on Tuesday. Among the candidates interviewed was Gautam Gambhir, who recently mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL trophy.
The CAC, comprising Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra, and Jatin Paranjpe, also interviewed WV Raman, among others.
While the complete list of candidates remains undisclosed, Gambhir has emerged as a strong contender, particularly after Rahul Dravid expressed his disinterest in continuing as head coach post the ongoing T20 World Cup.
Gautam Gambhir eyes Jonty Rhodes for Fielding Coach
Gautam Gambhir, who has shown keen interest in leading the national team, has reached out to Jonty Rhodes regarding the fielding coach position. This initiative comes from Gambhir himself, not the BCCI as per Cricbuzz.
If appointed, Gautam Gambhir will have the prerogative to select his support staff, and Jonty Rhodes, known for his unparalleled fielding skills, is a prime candidate.
Gambhir and Rhodes share a professional rapport, having worked together at the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise in the IPL. Rhodes, who has a wealth of coaching experience with various teams, is currently considering the proposal. He has sought clarity from the LSG management about the possibility of his release to join the Indian national team.
Jonty Rhodes: Fielding Maestro
Often hailed as the greatest fielder of all time, Jonty Rhodes’ name is synonymous with spectacular fielding. His coaching credentials are equally impressive.
Rhodes applied for the fielding coach role for India in 2019 but was not selected as then head coach Ravi Shastri chose to reappoint R Sridhar. In 2021, under Rahul Dravid’s tenure, an all-Indian coaching setup was maintained, with T Dilip serving as the fielding coach.
Currently, Rhodes is the fielding coach for the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and Durban’s Super Giants in the SA20 league. His coaching career spans multiple franchises, including the Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, as well as national teams like South Africa and Sweden.
Beyond his coaching achievements, Rhodes holds an honorary doctorate from Invertis University for his exceptional contributions to cricket.
Jonty Rhodes’ impact on Indian Cricket
Should Rhodes accept the role, his expertise could significantly enhance India’s fielding standards. His philosophy and techniques have already proven effective in various teams globally, and his presence could inspire the Indian players to elevate their game further.
Gambhir’s choice of Rhodes underscores his strategic thinking and focus on building a robust support system. As the BCCI moves towards finalising the head coach and making key changes to the support staff, Gambhir’s recommendations could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket.
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What will BCCI do?
The BCCI is on the brink of a crucial transition, with significant changes expected in the coaching and support staff. Gautam Gambhir’s proactive approach in recommending Jonty Rhodes highlights his commitment to strengthening the Indian team’s capabilities.
As the Cricket Advisory Committee deliberates on these appointments, the cricketing world awaits the official announcements with bated breath, hopeful for a new era of excellence in Indian cricket.
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