Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh has hinted at the possibility of applying for the position of Team India’s head coach, expressing a willingness to give back to the sport. As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opens applications for the role, Harbhajan Singh‘s interest intrigues the selection process.
Harbhajan Singh had a stellar cricket career for India, claiming 417 wickets in Test cricket and 269 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Renowned for his off-spin prowess, he played a crucial role in India’s victories, including memorable performances in major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup and ICC World Twenty20.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is facing a vital decision – finding a new head coach for the national men’s cricket team. Rahul Dravid’s tenure, extended to encompass the upcoming T20 World Cup in June 2024, is nearing its end. To fill this leadership role, the BCCI has opened applications. Their ideal candidate will be someone capable of steering the team across all formats of cricket, with the ultimate goal of shaping a world-class cricketing unit. The application deadline is approaching, and according to news reports, the board is considering a strong pool of contenders.
What Harbhajan Singh Said
Discussing the position, Harbhajan mentioned that although he hasn’t decided applying, he’s eager to contribute to the sport that has enriched his life. In a conversation with news agency ANI, the former Indian off-spinner expressed his sentiments.
He said, “I do not know if I would apply. Coaching India is about man management, not about teaching players how to drive and pull. They know it very well. You can give some guidance to them. Cricket has given me so much and If I get a chance to give it back, I would be more than happy.”
The deadline to apply for India’s head coach role is May 27, 2024, with current head coach Rahul Dravid eligible to reapply. According to eligibility criteria, candidates must have played a minimum of 30 Tests or 50 ODIs, or have two years of experience as the head coach of a full member Test-playing nation.
Harbhajan Singh on India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad
Reviewing India’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, Harbhajan Singh suggested that the selectors should have opted for an additional fast bowler instead of including four spinners. He proposed that three spinners would have been adequate. Harbhajan Singh also highlighted the absence of left-handed batter Rinku Singh, emphasizing his capacity to turn matches around single-handedly. In conversation with ANI, the former cricketer-turned-commentator shared his insights.
He said, “The World Cup team has been selected. The batting is good. I think we are one fast bowler short. One player that I think we will miss is Rinku Singh, because he is someone who can win the match single-handedly for us. He can chase down 60 runs in 20 balls. I think selecting four spinners is a bit too much. Three would have been enough. I wish the Team India all the best, hope they bring the cup.”
India is set to kick off their 2024 T20 World Cup journey with a match against Ireland in New York on June 5th.