The deadline for applications for the position of head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team closed on Monday (May 27). However, both the BCCI and the leading candidate, Gautam Gambhir, have chosen not to comment on the situation.

Gambhir was already a strong contender for the role, and his candidacy has gained further momentum following Kolkata Knight Riders’ victory in the IPL 2024 final against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk on Sunday (May 26).

According to a report from PTI, the BCCI is facing a shortage of high-quality candidates for the position. It has been noted that no notable foreign applicants have emerged for the prestigious role, particularly after BCCI secretary Jay Shah emphasized the board’s preference for a candidate who has progressed through India’s domestic cricket system.

Initially, the BCCI had its sights set on VVS Laxman, the head of the National Cricket Academy. However, Laxman is not inclined to commit to a full-time role that would require him to be available for ten months each year.

A source within the BCCI stated anonymously to PTI that although the deadline has passed, the board is in no rush to make a decision. With the upcoming World T20 occupying the team’s schedule for much of June, the BCCI feels there is no urgency to finalize the appointment. Additionally, senior players are set to be rested for tours of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, during which coaches from the NCA could accompany the team.

Furthermore, Gambhir’s strong association with KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan adds complexity to the situation, as it may not be easy for him to leave a team that has become synonymous with his identity.

Another crucial consideration is whether senior members of the Indian cricket team endorse Gambhir as a suitable replacement for Rahul Dravid.

Dravid was appointed as the chief coach in November 2021 for a two-year term, which concluded after the 50-over World Cup last year. However, he and his support staff were granted an extension until the T20 World Cup 2024.

The BCCI, in its advertisement last month, stipulated that the tenure of the next coach would span 3.5 years, from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027.