New Delhi: Kumble’s refusal to seek an extension as head coach saved a lot of embarrassment for Sachin Tendulkar led CAC which had VVS Laxman and Sourav Ganguly along with the BCCI and Virat Kohli himself.
CAC had categorically stated to BCCI that Kumble is the best possible man and he will be reinstated. BCCI however, was aware of a strained captain-coach relationship and wanted did not want Kumble to get an extension, but they could not have overruled CAC, a committee formed by the BCCI itself.
Virat too had a great deal of difference of opinion and didn't want Kumble to continue unless he changes his ‘style’ of functioning.
As per sources, Kumble chose to withdraw to save the blues that would have caused great unrest in the team as well as in the BCCI. Kumble, in the last meeting, with the BCCI official and CEO in London, refused to just be a throwdown coach and hang around in the dressing room after the BCCI informed him of Virat’s opinion.
Kumble said there was no point in continuing if he couldn't decide on how the team needs to go further and work accordingly.
India’s most successful Test bowler had already stated that he will give his inputs, leaving the final call of squad selection to the captain but he insisted if the team solely had to decide selection matter then it would be wrong on his part to continue.
However Kumble knew about the rift and BCCI motives but said in his statement that he was officially informed about it only on Monday. BCCI was waiting for CAC to make a final call on the candidate, hoping it would be someone else and once they realised it was Kumble they had no option but to inform him.
What was the rift?
There was a great difference of opinion between Virat and Kumble, including the one before the final. As per sources, Kumble wanted to bat first after winning the toss during the team meeting a day before the final but Virat insisted on batting second. Kumble also had a few harsh words to say to the players after the big loss and that was the last straw.
According to sources, Kumble had always pulled up a lot of players for their indiscipline and lack of intensity and wanted them to reflect on their static performances. Virat however has been very possessive about the team and felt such statements created insecurity in the team and also spoiled the atmosphere.
Kumble and Virat also were different on the players. While Virat wanted certain players in and some players out, Kumble wanted to keep the interest and balance of the team intact, particularly during the England and Australia Test series.
Kumble also wanted players to keep the country ahead and put in more intensified camps but players were reluctant keeping in mind the hectic season. He wanted a short camp ahead of Champions Trophy and wanted some key players to prepare but wasn't allowed after players protested.
Virat echoed what his players told him and he as skipper merely took the responsibility of informing the unpleasant relationship between team and coach.
Sehwag's entry into the list:
So how did Sehwag come into the picture?
Virender Sehwag declined to put in his application till he got some confirmation from the BCCI.
It came only after Ravi Shastri declined to reapply after the treatment he received earlier from CAC.
Sehwag came in late towards the deadline and was also coaxed by CAC members and Virat.
Contrary to what is being claimed, Sehwag sent in a paragraph expressing his interest in the job and asked the BCCI what else he needed to furnish. His resume and presentation was well over four pages.
So what next?
The CAC would call in for interviews for the six applicants and then choose. Sources confirmed that BCCI has asked for fresh applications.
The new coach would take charge from the Sri Lanka series in July and he would be allowed to bring in his support staff.
BCCI CEO is known to be keen on Tom Moody, especially having handled a lot of stars in SL and IPL. However, Virender Sehwag is the front runner but it remains to be seen the monetary offer that the BCCI will offer him.
Zaheer Khan is expected to be roped in as fast bowling consultant soon after the new coach is finalised.