Herschelle Gibbs (@ACBofficials) | Photo Credit: Twitter

Former South African cricketer Herschelle Gibbs has joined the race to become India's next head coach of the women's national team. The list of contenders reportedly incudes former international cricketers and coaches like Dav Whatmore, Venkatesh Prasad and Tom Moody. The post became vacant following BCCI's refusal to extend the contract with former incumbent Rames Powar following the Mithali Raj controversy.

After playing for South Africa in 90 Tests, 248 ODIs and 23 T20s, Gibbs had his first stint as a coach with Kuwait for their qualification for the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia. And of late, he is associated with Afghanistan Premier League (APL) franchise Balkh Legends as their coach.

“Yes, Gibbs is very much interested in the role of women’s coach,” a source close to the cricketer confirmed to CricketNext. “It is a very prestigious job, to be associated with the Indian national team. He has applied for the position and hopes to be called for the interview soon.”

BCCI is reportedly ready to offer a two-year contract to the final candidate where the coach will earn a substantial amount of Rs. 3 to 4 crores a year. The final decision will be taken by the chairman of Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai. Reports have claimed that outgoing coach Powar won't be reconsidered despite being re-applying for the post. The last date to submit the application is December 14 with the interview slated to be held on the 20th by a panel featuring former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad and Kapil Dev.

“The women’s team has been performing quite well recently. They have managed to improve a lot over the last year. We want a high-profile coach for the women’s team as well, who can push them and guide them to greater success. That is why we are sparing no expense on the hiring of a new coach,” a CoA source informed CricketNext.

