With just two months left until the Women’s T20 World Cup, the BCCI on Tuesday sent head coach Ramesh Powar to the National Cricket Academy as part of its “restructuring module”. While no head coach was named, former Indian batsman Hrishikesh Kanitkar, who was part of the Indian men’s teams (A and U-19), has been named as the new batting coach ahead of the home series against Australia. “Ramesh Powar, former head coach of the senior women’s team, will be joining VVS Laxman, Head Cricket, National Cricket Academy and will transition to men’s cricket as part of the BCCI’s restructuring module,” the BCCI said in a press release.
“The BCCI on Monday (Tuesday) announced the appointment of Hrishikesh Kanitkar as the batting coach of the senior women’s cricket team. Mr. Kanitkar will join the team from the upcoming five-match T20I series against Australia which will be played on December 9 in Mumbai begins.
Powar was appointed for his second stint in May 2021 and the Indian team did not have too many notable achievements under its belt other than the silver at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
India failed to make it to the semi-finals of the 50 over World Cup in New Zealand earlier this year.
Commenting on his appointment, Kanitkar said: “I see huge 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 some big events coming up and the continues to be exciting for the team and myself as batting coach.” Powar becomes the spin bowling coach at the NCA.
“With Powar coming on board (as spin bowling coach) we are confident that he will bring his expertise and experience to the National Cricket Academy. Having worked in the domestic, age group and international circuit I am confident will play an active role in improving the game. I look forward to working with him in his new role at the NCA,” said NCA head VVS Laxman.
Powar called his experience coaching women’s teams “enriching”.
“Over the years I have worked closely with some of the country’s loyal players and emerging talent. With my new role at the NCA, I want to use my experience over the years to build talent for the future.” .
“I look forward to working with Laxman on the further development of the game and the strength of the bench.” With the BCCI appointing the new cricket advisory committee earlier this month, it remains to be seen whether the head coach will be appointed any time soon.
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