NEW DELHI: As reported by TimesofIndia.com quoting a Cricbuzz report on Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking to expand India Men’s team coaching staff, specifically a batting coach.
Although there hasn’t been a formal statement, team management and BCCI discussions indicate that the support crew needs to be strengthened.
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Former domestic cricket giants are among the names being evaluated, but there hasn’t been a definitive decision.
Responding to related posts on X, former England captain Kevin Pietersen posted ‘Available!’.
And if the swashbuckling batsman does indeed go on to become Team India’s batting coach, it would be interesting to see how he fits in the system with Gautam Gambhir already there as the head coach.
Now both Pietersen and Gambhir are known for their strong personalities and outspoken nature and getting Pietersen in the mix would certainly be an intense and potentially fiery affair.
Charismatic and bold, Pietersen is known for his confidence and flair, both on and off the field and he has been unafraid to voice his opinions, even if they’re controversial, and often approaches debates with wit and sarcasm.
Straight-talking and fiercely passionate, Gambhir is driven by his values and is known for standing his ground and has had his share of verbal spats on the field, often fueled by his competitive spirit and national pride.
Add to that, Pietersen and Virat Kohli share mutual respect and camaraderie.
Pietersen has been one of Kohli’s biggest admirers, often hailing him as the best batsman of his generation. Kohli, in return, has acknowledged Pietersen’s influence on the game and expressed his respect for him as a player and a person.
Pietersen has defended Kohli during his tough phases, whether it was a dip in form or off-field criticism, highlighting the strength of their bond.
In addition to head coach Gautam Gambhir, India’s coaching team currently includes bowling coach Morne Morkel, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, and fielding coach T Dilip.
The position and operation of the coaching staff have been heavily criticized in the wake of India’s tour to Australia and their current losing streak in Test cricket, especially as stars like Virat Kohli are frequently dismissed in a similar manner.
