Bangladesh Cricket Board are in talks with former India coach Gary Kirsten to hire him as a team consultant for an extended period.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh was in search of a head coach since October last year. The position remained empty after Chandika Hathurusinghe resigned from the job.
However, BCB spokesperson Jalal Yunus said they had offered Kirsten, a different role than that of a head coach.
“He is on our list but he will come only as a team consultant. It’s not final, though. Hopefully, we will be able to strike a deal after the Indian Premier League,” Yunus said.
Kirsten, who played 101 Tests and 185 ODI was India’s coach during the winning run in the ICC World Cup in 2011. He also coached the Proteas team and had a lot of experience behind his back.
Further, he will be in charge of Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, which begins on April 7.
“If he agrees, he will also work with the Under-19 and the A-team and give us advice about cricket structure,” Yunus added.
Meanwhile, Yunus mentioned that they would appoint a separate head coach even if they strike a deal with Kirsten.
“He will not always be with the team; he will deal with separate issues, work with development squads like what Eddie Barlow did. He (Kirsten) will give advice but there will be a head coach,” he stated.
Former Proteas legend Barlow was Bangladesh’s coach when they achieved the Test status in 2000.
Meanwhile, Courtney Walsh acted as the interim coach in the recently concluded Nidahas Trophy. They put up a good show. However, lost the final by a close margin against India.
Yunus revealed that they are also in talks with former South African batsman Neil McKenzie as a possible batting consultant.
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