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Surprising news is emerging from the Indian cricket team's dressing room. Team India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, is considering parting ways with the Indian team. If he receives the green light from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and head coach Gautam Gambhir, this could be his final week with the squad.
The third ODI against England, scheduled for July 19, could mark Ryan ten Doeschate's last day in the Team India dressing room.
Why does Ten Doeschate want to leave Team India?
Sources indicate that Ten Doeschate has informed the BCCI of his desire and requested to be relieved of his responsibilities. This decision stems entirely from personal reasons rather than any controversy or dissatisfaction with the work. Should he leave the team, the decision will be made amicably and respectfully by both parties.
The main reasons behind this are as follows:
- Spending time with family: Ryan ten Doeschate, a former Netherlands international player, has his family based in London. He has three young sons, and his wife is also a working professional. Due to the Indian team's hectic schedule and constant travel, he is unable to devote time to his family. He is now seeking a role that requires less travel.
- Completion of contract: Ten Doeschate, who joined the Indian team exactly two years ago, has seen his initial contract with the BCCI expire (around July 12–14).
- Uncertainty regarding the role: Ten Doeschate's primary area of expertise is fielding. However, Team India already has T. Dilip serving as the head fielding coach. In such a scenario, ten Doeschate's role as an assistant coach was becoming somewhat limited.
All eyes on Gautam Gambhir's decision
Gautam Gambhir and Ryan ten Doeschate share a very close professional relationship. It was Gambhir himself who recommended ten Doeschate to the BCCI when he took over as head coach two years ago.
Given that Gambhir relies heavily on ten Doeschate across various fronts, there is a possibility that he might veto this request (to resign). Although this seems unlikely, it would be premature to say anything definitive, considering the Indian team's recent up-and-down performances.
