Reports: Sourav Ganguly could become next India coach, replacing Duncan Fletcher

Sourav Ganguly

In what could turn out to be a hugely significant development for Indian cricket, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly is being touted to replace Duncan Fletcher as India’s next head coach. According to a source close to the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), the 42-year-old has communicated his desire to take up the mantle of coaching the Men in Blue to current Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Jagmohan Dalmiya.

Fletcher’s tenure as Indian coach ended after the recently concluded 2015 World Cup where they reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual champions Australia. The BCCI had indicated quite some time ago that they were unlikely to renew his contract post the quadrennial event.

"Sourav's achievements as a cricketer and his tactical acumen present a strong case. But he has to apply for the job," the source said. "They (Ganguly and Dalmiya) had a discussion but Dalmiya didn't give him any assurance."

The source also informed that one of the top priorities for the new coach would be to ensure that India start winning more Test matches overseas. Under Fletcher, India won only two Test matches out of the 24 that they played outside the subcontinent.

Could Rahul Dravid also be in contention?

While Ganguly is one of the most respected figures in Indian cricket and likely to be among the leading candidates, he might be facing intense competition from none other than former teammate Rahul Dravid.

Dravid worked as a batting consultant during India’s tour of England last year and is considered among the brightest cricketing minds in the world. He, however, has stated in the past that he is wary of the rigorous travelling demands associated with the Indian team.

According to the source, some members of the BCCI are eager for Dravid to be considered, especially given the tremendous work he has done as Rajasthan Royals’ mentor in the IPL.

"Dravid is a hugely respected figure and is doing a great job as Rajasthan Royals mentor/coach. We want someone to take this young team forward. Dravid would be a top candidate, but like Ganguly, he, too, has to apply for the job if he's interested," he said.