Virat Kohli entitled to his opinion but ultimately decision will be ours, claims Shantha Rangaswamy

There has been a lot of talk around Virat Kohli’s media statement in which he publicly backed incumbent team manager Ravi Shastri to continue for another term in the same capacity. The Supreme Court-appointed CoA had earlier stated that the skipper will have no role to play when determining the person for the job. While some believe Kohli has broken protocol, all the three members of the decision-making body of CAC have stated that they respect the captain’s opinion though it won’t be considered while they carry out their job. 

"Virat is the captain and he is entitled to his opinion but it will be the collective opinion of the three of us (CAC) which will determine who the next head coach is," former India women's captain Rangaswamy told PTI, reported TOI.

The applications have already been received for the spot and interviews are scheduled to be carried out in mid-August with the shortlisted candidates. Incumbent coach Ravi Shastri will automatically be included in the process, while other prospective candidates include Australians Tom Moody and ex-Indian internationals Lalchand Rajput and Robin Singh. 

"I read some media reports and I endorse Anshuman's view on the matter. We need to look at all aspects -- his experience, the ability to bring the team together and how a good a strategist one is. The totality of that will be considered and individuals don't matter, it is the collective opinion which will weigh in determining who the head coach is," Rangaswamy concluded.