Team India vs IPL: Rahul Dravid Faces Dilemma as Extension Decision Looms, Reports Suggest

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to offer Rahul Dravid another two-year contract as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. However, the specifics of the contract are still being worked out, and for now, the BCCI wants Dravid to guide the team during their upcoming tour of South Africa.

During the past two years under Dravid’s coaching, India finished as runners-up in both the World Test Championship (WTC) and the ODI World Cup, establishing a successful track record. Many people within the BCCI believe that retaining Dravid as the head coach would provide continuity for the senior team.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has already had discussions with Dravid regarding the contract. Although the details are yet to be finalized, the BCCI wants Dravid to accompany the Test team to South Africa. A senior BCCI official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated, “The contract will be worked out, but the Test series is important. Even if he doesn’t go for the T20I series in SA, he can join from the ODIs.”

In the case of VVS Laxman, he may coach the team during the initial phase of the series to gain a firsthand understanding of the ‘A’ team. Laxman’s responsibilities at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and his involvement in the construction of a new NCA facility, as well as the upcoming U19 World Cup, make his schedule hectic.

Dravid, on the other hand, has not yet made a decision as he has also received multiple offers to become the Team Director/Team Mentor from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, which offer substantial financial benefits with less involvement. However, Dravid will also consider the success achieved by his coaching team, which includes batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip.

The nature of Dravid’s contract extension is yet to be determined. It could be for a year, with the next T20 World Cup in mind, or it could cover the entire ongoing WTC cycle and the Champions Trophy until 2025. The Champions Trophy is currently scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan.

The decision regarding Dravid’s contract extension and Laxman’s involvement in coaching the team during the South Africa tour will be crucial for the Indian cricket team’s future.