Former India head coach Rahul Dravid has reportedly become one of the leading names being considered to replace Brendon McCullum as England’s Test coach.
McCullum’s stint in charge of England’s Test side came to an end after the team’s disappointing performances in the format, including a recent 2-1 home series defeat to New Zealand. While he has stepped down from the Test role, he will continue as England’s head coach in white-ball cricket.
According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, Dravid is among the candidates on England’s shortlist. Other names being considered include former England coach Andy Flower and ex-spinner Richard Dawson.
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Dravid among top contenders
Dravid has built a strong reputation as a coach over the years, thanks to his calm approach, attention to detail and success at different levels of Indian cricket.
The 53-year-old guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and also took the team to the final of the 2023 World Test Championship. Before coaching the senior side, he played a key role in developing young talent through India’s Under-19 and India A teams.
Despite being seen as a strong candidate, the report suggests Dravid is not actively looking to return to a full-time coaching role.
“Dravid has no desire to coach full-time, but the England Test job would allow him extended periods at home and the chance to help keep alive his favourite format of the game. England, at the very least, should gauge his interest,” the Daily Telegraph reported.
Other names in the race
Andy Flower is believed to be one of the favourites for the position. During his previous stint with England, he guided the team to three Ashes series wins and helped them reach the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test rankings.
Flower has also enjoyed plenty of success in franchise cricket. Most recently, he led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to back-to-back IPL titles.
Richard Dawson is another name on England’s radar. The former England spinner is currently the head coach of Glamorgan and has earned praise for his tactical skills in county cricket.
The report also said that several other experienced coaches are being considered. The list includes Sri Lanka great Kumar Sangakkara, England Lions coach Andrew Flintoff, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson and former Australia coach Justin Langer, as England begin the search for a new Test coach ahead of the next Ashes series.