Produced by: Tarun Mishra
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faced a deluge of over 3,000 applications for the position of head coach for the Indian men’s cricket team. However, a significant portion of these applications were found to be fake, featuring names of prominent figures like Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Sachin Tendulkar, and MS Dhoni.
Numerous fake applications surfaced during the application process, with names of renowned cricketers and politicians being used in the submissions. Notable personalities such as Harbhajan Singh, Virender Sehwag, and even Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were among the fake applicants.
The BCCI initiated the application process on May 13 through Google forms, witnessing a surge in fake submissions on a daily basis. Despite the overwhelming response, the authenticity of genuine candidates expressing interest in the role remains uncertain.
This incident isn't the first of its kind for the Indian cricket board. In 2022, during a similar recruitment drive for the head coach position, the BCCI encountered around 5,000 fake applications, mostly utilizing celebrity names. To streamline the vetting process, the BCCI opted for Google forms this time, aiming for easier scrutiny.
The BCCI outlined specific criteria for the prospective head coach, emphasizing attributes such as the ability to handle the pressures of managing elite athletes and nurturing a world-class Indian cricket team capable of sustained success across formats and conditions.
The selected candidate will be tasked with leading the Indian cricket team until the 2027 50-over World Cup in South Africa. Their responsibilities include inspiring current and future generations of cricketers and stakeholders through their approach to the game.
The new head coach is expected to assume office shortly after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in the USA and Caribbean next month. Incumbent coach Rahul Dravid, who took charge in December 2021, has opted not to seek an extension.
The BCCI's decision to employ Google forms for applications aimed to streamline the process and facilitate easier scrutiny of applicant details, given the previous challenges faced with impostor applications.
While the authenticity of genuine applicants remains uncertain amidst the influx of fake submissions, the BCCI is anticipated to diligently evaluate applications to identify suitable candidates for the prestigious role of head coach.