Rahul Dravid’s contract as the head coach of the Indian team has been extended until the conclusion of the Twenty20 World Cup, effective immediately. He will accompany the Twenty20 team to South Africa, departing as early as December 5.
Sources familiar with the negotiations between Dravid and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the past few days have confirmed the duration of the extension. Dravid has been informed that his contract will undergo a review after the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the US.
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to commence on June 3 and conclude on June 30. Consequently, Dravid’s extended tenure will run until the end of June. Similar terms are expected to apply to other support staff members for now.
The extension was never in doubt from the BCCI’s perspective, especially following India’s commendable performance in the World Cup, where they showcased a distinctive brand of cricket, the primary focus was on obtaining Dravid’s consent.
It is known that Dravid was initially a reluctant coach, requiring some convincing. While there is a possibility that Dravid may not accept an extension post the Twenty20 World Cup, members of his support staff may be considered for further extension. The BCCI has, for now, bought some time on this matter.
Selection Committee Meeting Tomorrow
The selection committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday to finalise the squads for the upcoming South Africa series. The meeting will take place in Delhi on Thursday morning, with Ajit Agarkar’s committee expected to select teams for all formats — T20Is, ODIs, and Tests. India are set to play three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests from December 10 to January 7.
It is likely that most players from the current T20I side that is playing against Australia will be retained for the shortest format, and the majority of players who featured in the World Cup, with a few exceptions, will find a place in the ODIs side. There are speculations that Virat Kohli might skip the ODIs which appear true, but sources close to him have denied suggestions that he will abandon white ball cricket for an indefinite period.
The leadership for the ODI side is not clear, and it remains uncertain whether Rohit Sharma will lead; there is a possibility that he might opt out. However, Rohit is expected to lead in the two Tests in India. Currently, the captain is overseas and was unavailable for comment.
