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[Saba Sports News] Although not formally announced by the BCCI, it has been reported that former India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar and former Dutch international Ryan ten Doeschate are set to join the Indian team coaching staff.
These new additions will join Gautam Gambhir, the new head coach, and retain some staff from Rahul Dravid’s tenure, including T Dilip, who remains the fielding coach. Dilip is known for his effectiveness and positive influence in the dressing room, excelling in team bonding exercises, essential in a competitive environment.
Nayar and Ten Doeschate will serve as assistant coaches. The new bowling coach has yet to be confirmed, but Morne Morkel is a strong candidate. All three have previously worked with Gambhir in the IPL—Nayar and Ten Doeschate at Kolkata Knight Riders, and Morkel at Lucknow Super Giants.
Dilip and Nayar will travel with the team on Monday, but it is unclear when ten Doeschate will join, as he is currently coaching the LA Knight Riders in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the US. Morkel’s plans are also not finalized, though discussions with the BCCI are ongoing.
The Indian team departs for Colombo on a charter flight at 1 pm on Monday.
Before departure, the BCCI is expected to formally unveil Gambhir as head coach in a media conference on July 22 in Mumbai, attended by the new T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav. BCCI boss Jay Shah, already in Colombo for the ICC Annual Conference, will meet the team upon arrival.
Nayar recently conducted a coaching clinic for the Mumbai team at the MCA academy, focusing on mental toughness and growth mindset.
Although the clinic was cut short due to bad weather, it was well-received, and Nayar offered his expertise voluntarily. His contributions to the Mumbai team and the Kolkata Knight Riders’ success have earned him respect among players.