Ideal Time to Coach Team India, Sourav Ganguly a Good Option: Sunil Gavaskar
Sunil Gavaskar feels Sourav Ganguly's experience can be of immense help to Team India. He says Ganguly can be valuable in any role - whether as head coach or Team Director or as a High Performance Coach.
Team India is on the lookout for a new coach to replace Duncan Fletcher. With several names doing the rounds, one has emerged at the very top - even if it may not be specifically for the post of head coach. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is being seen as an ideal candidate to guide Team India - a role that Sunil Gavaskar feels will help Men in Blue immensely.
Speaking to NDTV on Monday, former Test captain Gavaskar said it was an ideal time to coach Team India.
"India play most of their upcoming matches at home and so, it is the best time to become the team's coach," said Gavaskar. "If Ganguly has the time, he should get fully involved with the team in any capacity." Ganguly could accompany the national team during its series in Bangladesh next month.
While Ganguly himself has neither confirmed nor denied being offered any post, his valuable experience can be of immense help to the team, if appointed.
"If Ganguly becomes Team India coach, the side does not need any other coaches," observed Gavaskar. Ganguly played for the national side between 1996 and 2008 and is credited by many for infusing the team with a fighting intent.
Under him, India reached the final of the 2003 World Cup - a first since 1983. He also held the record for most away ODI wins (58) till earlier this year when Mahendra Singh Dhoni overtook him.
Ganguly though is not the only name doing the rounds for the post of Team India coach. Former Australian cricketer Justin Langer is also seen as a strong contender for the post of head coach.
Some media reports suggest Langer could take over as the head coach with Ganguly replacing Ravi Shastri as the Team India Director.