Graeme Swann eager to coach India as BCCI seeks Dravid's successor

Former England spinner Graeme Swann has expressed his eagerness to take on the role of head coach for the Indian cricket team, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) searches for a replacement for Rahul Dravid, who will step down after the T20 World Cup 2024.

Swann, who coached Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, helped the team reach the playoffs. Despite a rough start with seven losses in their first eight matches, RCB made a remarkable comeback with a six-match winning streak to secure a playoff spot.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the India head coach role, Swann said, "If India asked me to become their coach, I'd do it in a heartbeat! I love this place."

He also praised former England coach Andy Flower, who announced he would not be applying for the role.

“Andy was an incredible coach for England when I played. He took us to no.1 in the world, and was the best coach I've played under. India would be lucky to have him,” Swann remarked.

Commenting on the strength of the Indian team, Swann added, "“India... you've got such a strong squad, such a highly talented players, that whoever gets the job... it will be the biggest coaching job in world cricket these days. Whoever gets it, hope they bringing success because they are really under the microscope.”

Meanwhile, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah denied any discussions with former Australian cricketers about the head coach position, contradicting Ricky Ponting’s claim of a recent one-on-one conversation with board officials during IPL 2024.