The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has reportedly completed the interview process for the various coaching positions across the age groups for the upcoming domestic season, and Laxmi Ratan Shukla is among the big names set to continue playing important roles in Bengal cricket.
There are even reports that a big overseas face can join the Bengal coaching staff for the upcoming domestic season. However, CAB has not yet made any official announcement regarding the recruitment.
Laxmi Ratan Shukla set to continue as Bengal senior team head coach
As reported by Revsportz, former Indian all-rounder Laxmi Ratan Shukla is all set to continue as the head coach of the Bengal senior men’s team after impressing the Cricket Association of Bengal with his work in previous seasons.
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It is being said that many CAB officials were happy with the progress Bengal made under Laxmi Ratam Shukla’s coaching tenure. Under Laxmi Ratam Shukla's leadership, Bengal has done really well in domestic cricket, as they reached the Ranji Trophy semifinals twice and even played one final.
CAB officials reportedly wanted stability in the dressing room, and that is why they decided to continue with Laxmi Ratan Shukla. On the other hand, former Indian wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha will also continue as the head coach of the Bengal Under-23 men's team.
Manoj Tiwary becomes Bengal's Under-19 head coach
Another major development is the entry of former India batter Manoj Tiwary into coaching. After retiring from the game, Manoj had already shown his interest in coaching after trying his hand in politics.
Now, CAB has reportedly appointed Tiwary as the head coach of Bengal’s Under-19 side. This will be his first big coaching role after retirement.
Surendra Bhave set to join Bengal coaching set up but Saurasish Lahiri surprisingly left out
Meanwhile, Mumbai’s experienced coach Surendra Bhave is expected to join Bengal’s senior team as the assistant coach and batting coach. He has worked in domestic cricket for many years and is known for his strong understanding of batting techniques.
On the other hand, former pacer Sabir Ali is expected to be Saha's deputy at the Under-23 level. But the biggest surprise was the sacking of the former Bengal spinner Saurasish Lahiri because he has been one of the team’s most successful coaches in recent years.
Saurasish was regularly called by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence for coaching assignments. However, the Cricket Association of Bengal may still offer Saurasish a role later in the future.
CAB waiting for Shaun Tait decision for big role
Well, one major position is still vacant on the Bengal side. The senior team’s bowling coach has not been finalized yet, but former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait has emerged as a front-runner for this position. Tait is currently working with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and is under contract until next year’s ICC World Cup 2027.
It is being said that Tait is waiting for discussions with CAB to move forward before making any official decision regarding his future. The state association officials are hopeful that things will be clear very soon. If Tait joins the Bengal setup, it could become one of the biggest coaching appointments in domestic cricket this season.
