Team India suffered a major setback ahead of the Asia Cup 2022 after learning the news of head coach Rahul Dravid Covid 19 positive. The BCCI announced on Tuesday (August 23). Dravid skipped the recently concluded three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe. The KL Rahul-led team won 3-0.
The coaching staff, including Rahul Dravid, batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, was rested by the senior selection committee due to the hectic international schedule. In his absence, VVS Laxman played the role of head coach during the Zimbabwe tour.
“Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid has tested positive for COVID-19 in a routine test conducted ahead of the team’s departure to the UAE for Asia Cup 2022. Mr Dravid is under the supervision of the BCCI Medical team and has mild symptoms. He will join the team once he returns with a negative COVID-19 report.”
BCCI said in a statement.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2022: Top players to watch out for the upcoming edition
Will Dravid be available before Asia Cup 2022?
With Captaining roles passing to about eight players in 2022, the coaching roles, too, have followed the same precedent. In the Zimbabwean series, VVS Laxman dawned the position of Head Coach while the regular coaches took some time off. With mild symptoms reported, Rahul Dravid seems unlikely to join Team India in August. Most Probably, NCA coach VVS Laxman will be again called to fill in his shoes. Laxman being a weathered cricketer and coach, will be the ideal choice for this role. Additionally, his performance in the Zimbabwean series has just added another feather to his cap.
India will start its Asia Cup campaign on the 28th of this Month. The much-awaited game is against its arch-rival Pakistan.
