Former Australian and English fast bowling coach Troy Cooley will replace Paras Mhambhrey, who is expected to join the Indian men’s cricket team as the fast-bowling coach.
Cooley, who hails from Australia, spent some memorable spells as fast bowling coach in the past, especially his stint with England. His work with the likes of Steve Harmison, Matthew Hoggard, Simon Jones and Andrew Flintoff helped the Three Lions side script many amazing wins, including the coveted 2005 Ashes triumph.
He then worked with Australia for nearly half-a-decade, before he joined Brisbane’s Centre of Excellence. A source from BCCI, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo, has mentioned that the board’s chairman Sourav Ganguly is hoping for Cooley to work with the next generation of fast bowlers in India, who are visibly an attractive proposition. The well-reputed bowling coach is expected to receive a three-year contract from BCCI.
It was also confirmed by BCCI recently that former cricketer VVS Laxman will be taking up the head of cricket duties at the NCA. Laxman, who has an impressive track record with his work at Sunrisers Hyderabad as mentor is expected to work closely with the head coach of the men’s team, Rahul Dravid, and Ganguly to nurture the future of Indian cricket.
One of the major changes that could arrive soon is a contract exclusive for young pacers in India. As a part of this proposal, Cooley and Laxman will handpick 10 young fast bowlers who are not in national reckoning or own central contracts, to help them find a way into the India A side, and eventually the national side.
Besides, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, SS Das, and Sitanshu Kotak will be taking up responsibility as batting coaches at the NCA. All three of them have been in coaching duties previously at a similar level, and there is great positivity in the camp that they will bring positive results. Sairaj Bahutule, who previously worked with Rajasthan Royals, will be the spin-bowling coach.
