As the BCCI searches for a new head coach, speculation has linked Gautam Gambhir to the role. Following his successful mentorship of the Kolkata Knight Riders, culminating in their third IPL trophy. However, Virat Kohli’s childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has a different suggestion: Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
During India News’ program Cricit Predicta, the Dronacharya Award-winning coach endorsed Dhoni as the ideal candidate for the top job if he announces his retirement from playing. “Dhoni would be a great option. He has played a lot of cricket and won big tournaments,” Sharma stated.
Sharma emphasized Dhoni’s ability to command respect in the dressing room and manage the team effectively. Even when it included cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, and Anil Kumble. “Dhoni handled the team brilliantly during his captaincy,” Sharma added.
Rahul Dravid’s current contract as India’s head coach is set to end after the T20 World Cup. While Dhoni has not announced his retirement from the IPL, many speculate this season might be his last. True to his nature, Dhoni has kept his future plans ambiguous.
Contrasting Sharma’s view, former India fast bowler Atul Wasan proposed a different approach. “The role of a coach should be removed in T20 cricket; a mentor or format expert should be appointed instead,” Wasan said. He argued that the coach’s role is limited to logistical support and should not be held responsible for the team’s performance.
“Like in football, where there are managers instead of coaches, cricket should adopt a similar model,” Wasan suggested. “A manager would oversee the team without bearing the burden of its successes or failures,” he concluded.
The debate over the next head coach highlights diverse opinions on the role’s nature, with Dhoni’s name emerging as a compelling option for his unparalleled leadership and cricketing acumen.
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