Explained: Why MS Dhoni Is Ineligible For The India Head Coach Role
Dhoni has previously served as a mentor for the Indian team during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, though the team exited early in the group stages.
As the race intensifies for the position of India's new men's cricket head coach, one name that has garnered considerable attention is MS Dhoni. However, Dhoni is not eligible for the role, despite his vast experience and popularity.
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The key reason for his ineligibility lies in a stipulation by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that candidates must have retired from all forms of cricket. Although Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, he continues to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Chennai Super Kings, making him ineligible for the head coach position.
Dhoni's ongoing commitment to IPL
Dhoni's contribution to Indian cricket is monumental, with many fans expressing their desire to see him as the head coach. This sentiment was particularly strong on social media. However, Dhoni's continued involvement with the Chennai Super Kings keeps him out of the running. Dhoni has previously served as a mentor for the Indian team during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, though the team exited early in the group stages.
There is ongoing speculation about Dhoni's retirement post-IPL 2024, but nothing is confirmed. His performance in the recent IPL season has been impressive, maintaining a strike rate of over 220 and being dismissed only thrice in 11 innings. This strong form suggests that Dhoni may not retire anytime soon.
IANS
In summary, while MS Dhoni remains a beloved figure in Indian cricket, his ongoing participation in the IPL precludes him from becoming the head coach of the national team. The cricketing community eagerly awaits the BCCI's announcement of the new head coach, hoping for a candidate who can continue to build on the legacy of Indian cricket.
India coach application process & potential candidates
The application window for the head coach position for the Indian cricket team recently closed, with the BCCI receiving over 3,000 applications via a public Google form. Many of these applications were fake, featuring names like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
Among the genuine candidates, Gautam Gambhir, who led the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title, is a strong contender. Other speculated names included Stephen Fleming and Ricky Ponting.
However, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has clarified that no Australians were approached and emphasized the preference for someone familiar with India's domestic cricket structure.
This has led to speculation that an Indian coach will be selected, with National Cricket Academy head VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir being prominent candidates.
Also Read: Fraudster Poses As MS Dhoni, Demands ?600 For 'Bus Fare' To Supposedly 'Return Home'
PTI
According to Cricbuzz, a high-profile IPL franchise owner close to the BCCI top brass suggested that Gautam Gambhir's appointment is almost certain and an announcement is expected soon. Additionally, a high-profile commentator mentioned that serious efforts are being made to appoint the KKR mentor as the head coach.
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