The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering former New Zealand captain and current Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming as a potential successor to Rahul Dravid. India is likely to enter a period of transition across all formats in the next few years and Fleming’s man-management skills, ability to bring the best out of players by creating a positive environment and his impressive success rate at CSK are believed to be a big draw. The BCCI on Monday officially began the process to appoint a new head coach for the Indian men’s team post the T20 World Cup. According to sources, Fleming, who has been head coach of CSK since 2009, is seen as a suitable candidate to take over from Dravid. However, the BCCI’s condition that the new head coach will be in charge for all three formats may affect Fleming’s decision as it would require him to be with the team for 10 months a year. Informal discussions have already taken place through the course of the IPL and it is believed that Fleming has not communicated with the CSK management about any intention to leave the franchise. Fleming has had success as a T20 coach and has coached various teams including Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash and Joburg Super Kings in SA20 and Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket. Internally, there is admiration for Fleming’s leadership and success with CSK, where he has guided the franchise to five titles and two Champions League trophies. He is known for his ability to bring out the best in players and has also contributed to the development of Indian domestic players through his leadership program. India’s senior players are also said to prefer a coach with strong technical knowledge and pedigree. If Fleming does not join as coach, it will be interesting to see who the BCCI approaches next. Other overseas coaches involved with IPL teams are also reportedly reluctant to take up the India job due to the extensive travel schedule. Rahul Dravid’s contract as the Indian men’s team coach expires after the T20 World Cup, and he has the option to re-apply for the position. The new head coach will have the responsibility of developing a world-class cricket team in all formats, leading a team of specialist coaches and support staff, and ensuring success in all conditions.
Stephen Fleming being considered as potential successor to Rahul Dravid as Indian men’s cricket team coach
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