Former India cricketer Hrishikesh Kanitkar will join the team for the next 5-match T20I series against Australia, which begins on December 9 in Mumbai.
Kanitkar, a top-order batsman who represented India in two Tests and 34 one-day internationals, has extensive coaching expertise. He formerly coached the Goa and Tamil Nadu Ranji teams, in addition to being a member of the WVS Laxman-led coaching staff in New Zealand during the recently concluded men’s white-ball series.
However, as part of the BCCI’s restructuring initiative, Ramesh Powar, the former head coach of the women’s team, will now work alongside Laxman at the National Cricket Academy. Under the VVS Laxman-led NCA, Powar would serve as the spin bowling coach.
“It is an honour to be appointed as the new batting coach of the senior women’s team. see tremendous prospects in this team and we have a good mix of youth and experience.
I believe this team is ready for the challenge ahead. We have a few marquee events coming up and it is going to be exciting for the team and myself as batting coach,”
Kanitkar said after being appointed.
Kanitkar also has experience in taking his teams into pressure tournaments, most notably being the head coach of the Indian U-19 side, which romped home to victory in the 2022 edition of the tournament.
Kanitkar’s side put up a dominant show, beating England in the final to capture the trophy for a record fifth time. His expertise also helped the likes of Yash Dhull, Raj Angad Bawa, and Rajvardhan Hangargekar capture Indian Premier League contracts.
Powar, was delighted to be part of the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, as part of the BCCI’s restructuring module. NCA chief Laxman was likewise excited to have Powar in his team.
“I have had an enriching experience in my stint as head coach of the senior women’s team. Over the years I have worked closely with some of the stalwarts of the game and upcoming talents of the country.
With my new role at the NCA, I will be looking to take forward my experience over the years to help build talent for the future. I look forward to working in tandem with VVS Laxman for the further development of the game and bench strength,” Powar said on his appointment.
