Trevor Bayliss. (Photo Source: Twitter/PunjabKingsIPL)
Looking at the success of Rahul Dravid with the Indian team, Ashish Nehra in Gujarat Titans and Gautam Gambhir and Chandrakant Pandit in Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings are now eager to appoint an Indian head coach for the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As per reports, the franchise doesn’t have a problem with Bayliss’ coaching style but the Australian failed to bring results in the last couple of years.
His track record in T20 cricket in the last few years is also concerning. He has failed to deliver for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sydney Thunder, and recently for Punjab Kings, which played a part in their wanting to part ways. The franchise was scheduled to have a board meeting on July 22 to discuss future plans but it didn’t take place. However, they seem to have discussed Sanjay Bangar’s name as the next head coach, who is currently their Director of Cricket Development.
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As per Cricbuzz, Bayliss’ two-year contract with Punjab ended with the completion of IPL 2024 and since then, the management has made no effort to renew it. Apart from Bangar, they are keeping other options open as well, especially with a mega auction in mind.
As things stand, Gujarat might also part ways with the successful coaching duo of Nehra and Solanki. Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh is believed to be in talks with the franchise but it needs to be seen if he returns back to cricket. Since his retirement, the southpaw has focused more on his brand and business and has groomed the likes of Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma and also featured in various leagues for retired cricketers but never indicated returning to professional cricket.
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On the other hand, Dravid remains one of the key players in the market, with many franchises wanting to sign the former India coach. Also, it won’t be surprising if Mumbai Indians part ways with Mark Boucher after finishing 10th in IPL 2024. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders are also looking for multiple roles after mass exit to the national team.