The dust has finally settled regarding the appointment of the next coach for the Indian women’s team, marking the third change in the position within a span of three years. It is understood that the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has conveyed their recommendation of Amol Muzumdar over his fellow contenders, Tushar Arothe and Jon Lewis for the top job to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
In December 2018, WV Raman assumed the role of head coach for the India women’s team. During his tenure, India achieved the notable feat of finishing as the runners-up in the 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup. However, in 2021, a surprising turn of events unfolded when Ramesh Powar made a return for his second stint as the head coach, displacing WV Raman, who had previously replaced Powar in the same position previously.
Unfortunately, Powar’s second tenure also concluded amidst controversy, and regrettably, it occurred at an inopportune moment when India were actively preparing for the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup and eventually went on to participate at the mega International Cricket Council (ICC) event without a designated head coach. During this period, Hrishikesh Kanitkar from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) took charge as the batting coach and remained in that position until the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup.
🚨 JUST IN 🚨
Amol Mazumdar to be officially announced as the women's team head coach.#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/eNcWCQczR9
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) July 3, 2023
In May 2023, the BCCI invited applications for the head coach’s role. Following the application process, the BCCI shortlisted three candidates, who were subsequently interviewed by the CAC on the 3rd of July in Mumbai. Impressed by Amol Muzumdar’s 90-minute presentation, the CAC, comprising Ms. Sulakshana Naik, Mr. Ashok Malhotra, and Mr. Jatin Paranjape, recommended him for the role of head coach to the BCCI.
Amol emphasized the importance of fitness and having a full-fledged support staff. He stated that enhancing the fitness standards of the women’s cricket team will be a crucial area of focus, and there are specific players within the national squad who would greatly benefit from improving their fitness levels. Additionally, he stressed the necessity of having a well-rounded support staff, which should include a dedicated mental trainer.
The 48-year-old domestic stalwart showcased an impressive average of over 50 in first-class cricket and made a remarkable debut by scoring a double century (260). Despite such achievements, he never managed to secure a place in the senior national side, although he did serve as the deputy of the India Under-19 team.
Facing repeated disappointments, Amol contemplated leaving the game in 2002. However, he persevered and stayed in the cricketing arena. In the 2006-07 season, he was appointed as captain and led Mumbai to a victorious campaign in the Ranji Trophy, showcasing his leadership abilities and resilience.
Following his snub from the Mumbai squad in 2009, Amol moved to Assam and continued his cricketing career there. In October 2012, he signed a two-year contract with Andhra Pradesh, however, mid-season in 2013-14, he took on the role of mentoring the young players of Andhra Pradesh. This marked his first significant coaching stint, and as the second innings of his career unfolded, it only improved further.
In December 2013, Amol Muzumdar took on the role of batting consultant for the Netherlands cricket team. Additionally, he served as the interim batting coach for the South African side during their tour of India. On the domestic front, Amol recently held the position of head coach for the Mumbai Ranji side. He has also contributed as the batting coach for the India Under-19 cricket team and the India Under-23 teams, showcasing his expertise in coaching and developing young talent.