Once again, discussions are buzzing about who will take the helm as Team India's new head coach, capturing the attention of cricket enthusiasts nationwide. On Monday, 13, May, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opened the floor for applications for the men's national team's head coach position. The tenure for this role will run from July 1 of this year until December 31, 2027, coinciding with the upcoming 50-over Cricket World Cup.

Following India's disappointing loss at the ICC Cricket World Cup final last November, the current head coach, Rahul Dravid, received an extension until the end of June. This extension aligns with the ICC T20 World Cup, slated to take place in the West Indies and USA from June 1 to 29.

Applications for the position must be submitted by May 27, 6 PM.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah announced that Dravid would need to reapply if he desires an extension, though reports suggest Dravid hasn't indicated interest in continuing.

Meanwhile, VVS Laxman, current head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is reportedly unlikely to vie for the position, according to Sportstar.

Here are the top contenders:

Stephen Fleming
Former New Zealand captain and current CSK head coach Stephen Fleming is a potential candidate if he applies. Known for fostering a positive team atmosphere, Fleming's successful tenure with CSK makes him a strong contender.

Andy Flower
Renowned for his calm demeanor and extensive coaching experience, Andy Flower, who previously represented Zimbabwe, currently coaches IPL side Royal Challengers Bangalore. Flower's impressive coaching history positions him as a frontrunner.

Gautam Gambhir
With a reputation for straightforwardness, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, currently mentoring Kolkata Knight Riders, is a compelling option. Gambhir's impactful playing career and coaching experience make him a contender.

Justin Langer
Former Australian coach Justin Langer, credited with revitalizing the Australian team post the Sandpaper Gate scandal, currently coaches Lucknow Super Giants. Langer's coaching success and experience could make him a top choice.

Virender Sehwag
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag, known for his aggressive batting style, has also been rumored as a potential candidate. Sehwag's coaching stint with Punjab Kings in the IPL showcases his coaching prowess.

India's T20 World Cup Schedule:
India kicks off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 in New York, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on June 9 at the same venue. Subsequent matches are against the USA and Canada on June 12 and 15, respectively.

India Squad:
Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj

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