With Rahul Dravid's contract as the head coach of the Indian cricket team set to expire after the upcoming T20 World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively seeking his successor. The ninth edition of the T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held next month in the West Indies and the United States. Dravid has chosen not to renew his contract post-World Cup, prompting the BCCI to initiate the search for a new head coach.

The BCCI approached former Australian captain and cricket legend Ricky Ponting for the position, but Ponting has declined the offer. In an ICC review, Ponting revealed that although there were discussions about his interest during the IPL, he ultimately decided against taking up the role.

"I have seen many reports about it. Usually, such things spread on social media before we even know about it. But this time there were some 'one-on-one' discussions during the IPL, trying to find out my level of interest, whether to do it," Ponting said. He cited the extensive time commitment required, which does not align with his current lifestyle and family priorities.

With Ponting out of the running, the BCCI has advertised the position, with applications open until Monday, May 27. Reports suggest that the BCCI is considering several high-profile candidates:

Gautam Gambhir: Former Indian batsman and mentor for IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.

Stephen Fleming: Coach of Chennai Super Kings and former New Zealand captain.

Justin Langer: Coach of Lucknow Super Giants and former Australian batsman and coach.

Ponting explained his decision to decline the BCCI's offer, citing his current commitments and desire to maintain a balanced lifestyle. "I would like to be the coach of the senior national team. But with the other commitments I have, I want to spend some time at home as well... Everyone knows that coaching in IPL cannot be done if you are the coach of the Indian team, so that too will be out of the question," he said. He emphasized that the 10-11 months per year engagement required for the head coach role does not fit with his current lifestyle.

Despite his son's enthusiasm for the potential move, Ponting stressed the importance of balancing his professional responsibilities with family life. He acknowledged the interest in several other potential candidates, including Justin Langer, Stephen Fleming, and Gautam Gambhir.

As the BCCI continues its search, the cricket community eagerly awaits the announcement of the new head coach who will lead the Indian team into its next chapter.