BCCI Fires Abhishek Nayar, Ryan Ten Doeschate? Board furious at “KKR’s influence” in Indian team
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly unhappy with the “influence of the Kolkata Knight Riders” in the management of the team, according to ANI. BCCI brought in Sitansha Kotak as the new batting coach amid concerns over assistant coaches Gautam Gambhir, Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate.
Namely, BCCI has not appointed an expert batting coach under Gautam Gambhir. Abhishek Nayar has taken the responsibility of focusing on the batsmen. However, India have struggled with their batting during the home series against New Zealand and the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. in Australia.
The expert staff met with heavy criticism. Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the effectiveness of the support staff, holding them responsible for persistent technical deficiencies, especially in players like Virat Kohli. The men in blue suffered a loss to New Zealand and a 1-3 loss to Australia in the series.
BCCI reportedly unhappy with Abhishek Nayar, Ryan ten Doeschate
According to a report in PTI, Abhishek Nayar’s role in the Indian coaching staff could be temporary after India’s poor performance in the recent series. The report adds that Nayar is likely to be part of the coaching staff due to the senior player’s influence, but the player’s name has not been revealed.
“It is clear that Abhishek Nayar’s expertise is not helping the players. Kotak has been an expert batting coach for a long time and has also gained the confidence of the players,” a senior BCCI official told PTI on condition of anonymity.
Sitanshu Kotak’s first assignment – a five-match T20I series against England
Sitanshu Kotak, with National Cricket Academy and India A experience, has been named in India’s coaching set-up following concerns over Abhishek Nayar.
Kotak has built confidence among the players, including his successful stint in the India A team and the recent tour of Australia. His first assignment will be the five-match T20I series against England, starting on January 22. This appointment could be temporary as the next big series against England is still a few months away.
“We have India A in the shadows and Kotak normally runs the A team. He is a level 3 qualified coach and has assisted VVS Laxman in the past and was the head coach when India toured Ireland last year. Being a member of the NCA -a, it can be placed anywhere,” the source added.
The BCCI is all set to implement stricter protocols during the Indian team’s tours
Under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship, Kolkata Knight Riders won the 2024 IPL title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, Gambhir’s tenure as India’s head coach has seen mixed results, with multiple losses in ODIs and Tests.
After India’s disappointing performance in the BGT, the BCCI is tightening its regulations for players. A recent report by ESPNcricinfo reveals that the BCCI plans to implement stricter protocols during Team India’s tours, including limiting the time players spend with their families and banning independent transport.
Also read: Rishabh Pant named Delhi captain for Ranji Trophy, Virat Kohli’s participation still uncertain
