Robin Singh applies for Team India's head coach position
In an interesting development, former Indian cricket team all-rounder Robin Singh has applied for the position of the head coach of the team. With his application, Robin stated that a change could be good for the Indian side, which has bowed out of the semi-finals in two successive ICC World Cup events. The BCCI had invited applications recently. Here's more.
It is time to prepare for 2023: Singh
"Under the current coach, India has lost in the semi-finals of two successive ODI World Cups, and in the last four stage of the World Twenty20 championship as well. Now is the time to prepare for the 2023 World Cup," Singh told The Hindu.
Robin was India's fielding coach between 2007-09
Notably, Singh has worked with Team India before. During his career, Singh was one of India's finest fielders. And, he was subsequently hired as the fielding coach between 2007-09. During his time, India won a Test series in England. They also lifted the inaugural World Twenty20 in South Africa and pocketed the triangular ODI series trophy in Australia.
Singh is an experienced coach
Singh joined Mumbai Indians as the head coach in 2010. He stayed with the franchise for three years. Besides the IPL, he was associated with India A and Under-19 sides before. He has the desired experience and could bring in a change.
Ravi Shastri the favorite to land the job
Meanwhile, current Indian team coach Ravi Shastri, who has been given an extension till the tour of West Indies, is being touted as the favorite to retain the job. Anshuman Gaekwad, who is part of the three-member panel headed by Kapil Dev to select the Indian coach, recently said, that Shastri has done well and produced results.
Ravi has done quite well: Gaekwad
"Speaking purely from the results perspective, he has done quite well. So, besides Ravi, all other positions [in the coaching and support staff] in my opinion are open depending on who is applying, their credentials and whether they meet the criteria," said Gaekwad.
A look at Shastri's tenure as India coach
Shastri was appointed as India's head coach in 2017. The appointment was made after tenure of Anil Kumble ended prematurely under controversial circumstances. Under Shastri, India won the historical Test series in Australia. Virat Kohli's men also won the ODI and T20I series in South Africa. India bagged the Asia Cup in UAE and Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka as well.
Shastri the ideal choice, but Robin could bring freshness
Shastri has a great understanding with the team. Overall, Team India has produced results with him at the helm. Realistically, he leads the race. But the team could get in some freshness. That's where someone like Singh could be ideal. He has the pedigree.
