In a significant development, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has announced the inclusion of Shyama Shaw as a member of the women’s senior selection committee.
Shaw, a former all-rounder, represented India in three Tests and five ODIs during the mid-1990s. Her vast experience extends beyond playing, having served in various administrative capacities, notably as a Bengal selector for two terms. She replaces Mithu Mukherjee, who departs from the panel.
The announcement of the selection panel will be followed by the appointment of a full-time head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invited applications in May, with Gary Kirsten being a preferred choice. However, Kirsten’s prior commitments in the IPL and other leagues prevented his availability.
BCCI wanted to appoint Gary Kirsten as the head coach of the Senior Indian Women’s team, but couldn't due to his commitments in the IPL and other leagues.#CricketTwitter Source: ESPN Cricinfo pic.twitter.com/lPUqp3rooq
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) June 20, 2023
Amol Muzumdar, the former Mumbai captain, and Hrishikesh Kanitkar, a former Indian all-rounder and current interim head coach, are among the contenders for the position. The BCCI’s pursuit of a renowned international figure is believed to be the reason for the delay in making the appointment.
It has come to light that Charlotte Edwards, the former England captain, and World Cup winner, expressed interest in the role only recently. However, it remains uncertain if she has officially entered the race. Edwards currently holds the position of head coach for the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League.
The new head coach is expected to be offered an initial two-year term, considering the upcoming ICC events. These include the T20 World Cup scheduled in Bangladesh in 2024 and the 50-over World Cup to be held in India in 2025. The BCCI aims to secure a coach who possesses substantial international experience, contributing to the meticulous selection process.
The BCCI continues to make strategic moves to strengthen the leadership and selection structures within Indian cricket, ensuring a seamless transition into an exciting new phase for both the men’s and women’s teams.
(Inputs sourced from ESPN Cricinfo report)
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