BCCI to back Ramesh Powar for Indian women's team: Sources

Ramesh Powar, who took possession of the head coach of the Indian women’s team for the second time in May last year, will continue as the team’s head coach as the former spinner still has a year left as per the contract.

After India’s disappointing execution in the ICC ODI Women’s World Cup 2022, several reports suggested that Powar’s contract was just for one year and it will expire after the conclusion of the showpiece event.  

For the unversed, the former Test cricketer replaced the ex-Indian opener, WV Raman, as the head coach of the women’s team in May last year, and contrary to reports, he was handed a two-year contract. He was appointed for the job, followed by a well-conducted interview by a three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and RP Singh.  

Meanwhile, a close source to BCCI revealed that the board officials discussed the awful World Cup performance with the team management and head coach Powar. 

“Yes, there was discussion, and the team and the coaching department have been asked to strengthen the performance. Whatever possible facilities or tournaments are required will be given to them. 

“For us (BCCI), both teams are equal. Yes, there was a bit of disappointment when they lost the South Africa game and had to leave the World Cup early, but it is a game and winning and losing are part of the game,” the source said.

India had a horrendous time in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2022, which saw Mithali Raj and the company failing to qualify for the semifinals of the tournament. They managed to win just three of their seven games finishing fifth on the points table. 

With a couple of mega tournaments queuing, it would be interesting to see how Women in Blue prepare under the coaching of Ramesh Powar.