BCCI making efforts to get Dravid on board

Sabi Hussain

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, July 19

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) seems keen on using the services of Rahul Dravid as a batting consultant for overseas Test assignments, and wants him on board before India’s tour of South Africa in November. The Committee of Administrators (CoA), in consultation with the four-member committee appointed to sort out the issue of support staff — has mandated BCCI CEO Rahul Johri to hold talks with Dravid in this regard.

Johri will discuss several issues with Dravid, ranging from his availability to his consultation fee in case he agrees to take up the job. Johri’s immediate brief is to finalise a formal contract with the batting legend.

It’s been learnt that Dravid is more comfortable with the idea of offering his services during the preparatory camps for overseas tours rather than traveling with the team.

“Since Dravid is also the coach of India A and Under-19 teams, it would be difficult for him to travel for longer periods with the senior team,” said a BCCI official. “India colts, too, tour regularly for various competitions, so Dravid appears more comfortable attending training sessions in India.”

“He isn’t travelling to Sri Lanka since he would be heading to South Africa for an India A tour. It’s the South Africa tour for which BCCI wants him on board as it’s going to be a very tough tour and the team will need his expert advice,” said the official. 

Besides, it has been learnt that Ravi Shastri has had a word with Zaheer Khan about his possible involvement as a bowling consultant with the team. “Zaheer may not be used on overseas tours. Instead, his services could be utilised during India’s home season. With Shastri getting his core support staff, he doesn’t want to clutter his mind with too many opinions. Like Dravid, Zaheer, too, would be used occasionally, especially during the home matches,” the official said.