Top 5 names who can become India’s next head coach after Rahul Dravid

The final of the ODI World Cup 2023 shattered the hearts of many Indians but it also marked the probable end of Rahul Dravid's coaching stint with Team India. Appointed as the head coach in 2021, Dravid's two-year contract has reached its end after the finals of the World Cup. Despite his legendary status in Indian cricket, the team, under his guidance, failed to secure an Apex Governing Council trophy.

As the cricketing world awaits an official statement on Dravid's future, it's confirmed that he won't be coaching Team India in the upcoming T20I series against Australia. VVS Laxman is set to step in as the interim head coach.

However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) must follow a formal procedure, inviting applications for the head coach position, even if they consider renewing Dravid's contract. This procedure was followed in 2019 when Ravi Shastri was retained. Here we have the list of top 5 probable names who could be named as Rahul Dravid’s successor:

1) VVS Laxman

If Dravid doesn't get an extension, VVS Laxman is a frontrunner for the head coach position. Having joined the BCCI as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief, Laxman has substantial coaching experience. His coaching journey began in 2013 with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL. Laxman's experience and understanding of the game make him a compelling choice.

 2) Anil Kumble

A proven coach, Anil Kumble, could be a strategic choice for the BCCI. Kumble enjoyed success as the head coach of Team India, with notable achievements, including a strong performance in the 2017 Champions Trophy.

His experience and strategic acumen might bring stability to the team, especially considering the changes in Indian cricket since his last tenure. Although his end with the Indian team in his previous stint was not a memorable one if he is ready to make a comeback then he can be a really good choice.

 3) Virender Sehwag

An ICC Hall of Famer, Virender Sehwag, remains a top contender. With no IPL franchise commitments, Sehwag could join the BCCI immediately. Having expressed interest in coaching Team India in the past, the BCCI might need to reach out to Sehwag, much like they did with Dravid in 2021. His aggressive playing style might translate into an assertive coaching approach.

 4) Mike Hesson

A well-traveled coach in cricket, Mike Hesson, recently parted ways with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. Currently, he serves as the head coach of Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League. However, the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become the head coach of the Indian Cricket Team might lure him back, given his extensive coaching experience.

 5) Tom Moody

With coaching experience in both international and franchise cricket, Tom Moody is a seasoned candidate. Despite a past unsuccessful application for the Indian cricket team's coaching role, circumstances might be different this time. The 58-year-old's wealth of experience could make him a valuable asset for Team India.