Women’s cricket needs continuity: Deep Dasgupta
Cricketer turned commentator Deep Dasgupta said, women's cricket needs continuity with regards to coaches appointed. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) named Ramesh Powar as the new head coach of the women’s cricket team.
When Ramesh Powar was appointed as the new head coach for the Indian women’s team, it raised a few eyebrows. Powar’s appointment meant former Indian player WV Raman’s successful stint as coach ended. Under Raman, Indian women reached the final of the T20 World Cup in 2020. Former India wicketkeeper turned commentator Deep Dasgupta raised concerns about Powar’s appointment saying there has to be continuity in coaching style.
In a conversation with Sports Today, Deep Dasgupta raised his concerns.
“I know WV from the last 20 years, I mean personally. He came in as our coach in 2001 and I have obviously a great rapport with Ramesh, obviously, I have played a lot with him and against him. The only thing which strikes me as you mentioned, it hasn’t been too long with WV and whatever he has done. He has done well, my only concern is that there has to be some continuity.
“The last time Indian cricket team a major tournament, played the finals of the World Cup. Like I said both of them are extremely close to me and I like both of them but I just wish there is some continuity. There hasn’t been much cricket (for India Women due to COVID-19) so I don’t know on what basis WV Raman was not there. You can ask the same question why Ramesh was initially sacked because he did fairly well as well. So, I just hope there is continuity now,” Deep Dasgupta told Sports Today.
Ramesh Powar did well in 2018 when he was first appointed as head coach, but was removed later. ODI captain Mithali Raj had accused Powar of bias after she was dropped from the all-important World T20 semifinal against England. Raj was in superb form before being dropped.
The problem according to Dasgupta is that every coach has a different style of coaching. Once you start getting used to that you want to continue. That’s where continuity is important. Suddenly you have a new coach who will have his own ways.
Raman has wished not to talk about the issue, henceforth, who took to Twitter to convey the same. Raman also criticized the star culture in women’s cricket.
“So, to wind up this @BCCIWomen episode, I would like to inform my friends in the media that I have no inclination to talk about women’s cricket as my tenure has ended.. So, I solicit your cooperation, friends.” Raman tweeted.
The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) comprises three members. They are Madan Lal, Rudra Pratap Singh and Sulakshana Naik.