Former South Africa batsman Herschelle Gibbs has quite unexpectedly applied for the high profile position of becoming the coach of Indian Women's Cricket Team. Gibbs, it is learnt, has joined an elite list of experienced international coaches such as Dav Whatmore, Venkatesh Prasad and Tom Moody.
The ex-right hand opener played 90 Tests, 248 ODIs and 23 T20Is for Proteas and began his coaching career by guiding Kuwait in their bid to qualify for the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia as well being appointed by Balkh Legends franchise for the recently concluded Afghanistan Premier League.
"Yes, Gibbs is very much interested in the role of women’s coach. It is a very prestigious job, to be associated with the Indian national team. He has applied for the position and hopes to be called for the interview soon," a COA source close to the development was quoted saying by CricketNext.
The job has genuinely become a much-sought-after opportunity for various established coaches, since the BCCI advertised for it, after former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar's contract expired.
The board is reportedly offering a substantial amount of Rs. 3 to 4 crores a year and it is understood that the chairman of Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai will take a final call over the all-important appointment.
“The women’s team has been performing quite well recently. They have managed to improve a lot over the last year. We want a high-profile coach for the women’s team as well, who can push them and guide them to greater success. That is why we are sparing no expense on hiring of a new coach.” the source further stated an insight into the matter.
The BCCI will be accepting applications till December 14 with the interviews expected to take place on December 20 by a panel featuring former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad, and possibly legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev.
“The applicant needs to be a Level C qualified coach, should have played international cricket, or coached an international team for at least one year, or Coached in a T20 tournament for two seasons, or played at least 50 first-class matches,” a BCCI release has already confirmed the criteria.
