In a strategic move, head coach Rahul Dravid has decided not to oversee India’s ODI series in South Africa, with changes in the coaching staff taking centre stage for the limited-overs leg of the tour. India is set to face the hosts in the first ODI at The Wanderers in Johannesburg starting Sunday, December 17.
Coaching Shuffle for ODI Leg
KL Rahul will lead the ODI squad, featuring players who have made inspirational comebacks. The inclusion of leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, and middle-order batter Rajat Patidar adds depth to the team. Their performances will be closely watched as they vie for attention during the ODI series.
In the absence of Rahul Dravid and his coaching team, the coaching duties for the ODI series will be handled by former Saurashtra legend Sitanshu Kotak and other members of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) coaching staff. Ajay Ratra, a former India wicketkeeper, will take charge as the fielding coach, while Rajib Dutta will oversee responsibilities as the bowling coach.
Focus on Historic Test Series
While India is eager to clinch the ODI series, the spotlight is on the upcoming two-match Test series that follows. India has undertaken eight Test tours to South Africa without securing a red-ball series victory, adding motivation for the Test squad and coaching staff led by Rahul Dravid to script history.
In addition to the historical context, India’s Test team has a significant opportunity to advance in the World Test Championship 2023-25 points table. Currently placed second with a win and a draw in the ongoing cycle, a series victory against South Africa would propel India to the top of the rankings.
The coaching reshuffle indicates a strategic approach by the Indian team management, emphasizing the importance of building a well-rounded squad across formats and focusing on achieving milestones in challenging overseas conditions. As the ODI series kicks off, all eyes will be on the emerging talents and the coaching staff, setting the stage for an intriguing tour of South Africa.
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