In a major surprise Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has received around 2000 applications from the applicants for the post of Team India coach.
As per a report in Bangalore Mirror, this is huge number but there is dearth of big names which could have possibly challenged incumbent Ravi Shastri.
The report also mentions that former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody who has a vast coaching experience has applied for the role. Also, former New Zealand and current Kings XI Punjab head coach Mike Hesson has sent in his application. Among the Indian contenders, Robin Singh and Lalchand Rajput have applied for the role.
However, Mahela Jayawardene, who was earlier interested in the role has not yet sent in his application. Mirror also reports that many international applications were sent by the agents of the aspirants and the BCCI may take more time to evaluate all the names.
Also, it has been confirmed that former South African player Jonty Rhodes has sent in his application for the role of fielding coach.
The newly formed Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) co-member Anshuman Gaekwad said that they will go in with an open mind when they sit down to interview the short-listed candidates.