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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that discussions regarding a long-term extension of Rahul Dravid's tenure as head coach will be deliberated after the South Africa tour. Initially, a temporary extension was granted until the Twenty20 World Cup in June due to time constraints, with the board planning to finalize a decision upon Dravid's return from the upcoming tour.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah highlighted the time constraints, stating, "We did not have time. We met with them and mutually agreed that he can continue. Once they return from South Africa, we will sit with him and decide on the tenure."
Dravid's original tenure was supposed to conclude after the ODI World Cup on November 19. Subsequently, the Indian team embarked on an eight-game, month-long assignment in South Africa, departing on December 6. The decision on the long-term tenure for Dravid and his coaching staff is now expected to be made upon their return next month.
Furthermore, Shah clarified that no assurance can be given to Rohit Sharma regarding his selection in the Twenty20 side. Despite strong beliefs that he should be part of the ICC tournament in the Caribbean and the US from June 3-30, the captain has reportedly sought clarity on his role in the Twenty20 side.
In addition, Shah provided updates on the fitness status of Hardik Pandya and Mohammed Shami. Pandya, who has been sidelined since October 19, is being monitored closely at the NCA, with Shah expressing optimism about his potential fitness before the Afghanistan series. On the other hand, Shami's participation in the South Africa series is anticipated, with the Indian pacer expected to recover from his ankle injury in time.
Shah emphasized, "Shami should be ready for the South Africa series. He is not at the NCA yet but will go there soon. We are confident he will recover in time." The BCCI had previously stated that Shami's availability is contingent on his fitness, given his ongoing medical treatment. (Source cricbuzz)
