Kapil Dev is named coach ahead of Srikkanth
Krish Srikkanth has been pipped at the post yet again
Anand Vasu
22-Sep-1999
Krish Srikkanth has been pipped at the post yet again. In a
decision that surprised a few and angered as many, Kapil Dev was
yesterday appointed coach of the Indian cricket team. While it
was anticipated that Gaekwad's contract would not be renewed, it
was popularly believed that Srikkanth would be named his
successor. Srikkanth has been coach of both the India 'A' team
and the Indian youth team in the past. Srikkanth has been
successful at both stints.
Kapil Dev demanded a three year contract and a say in matters of
team selection. While he got neither, the board has made some
concessions and agreed to a two year contract. Kapil Dev will
sign a two year contract shortly effective from Ocober 1st 1999.
He will also be given an unofficial say in selection. He has not
been given a vote.
Kapil Dev is currently the leading wicket taker in test cricket.
He also led India to victory in the 1983 World Cup. However, he
has had no prior coaching experience. Coaching an international
team demands specialised skills and clear thinking. It remains to
be seen whether Kapil Dev can deliver the goods with sheer
charisma and inspiration alone.
Gaekwad told the Times of India that he expected Kapil Dev to do
a better job than he had, with his enourmous experience as both
player and coach.