Lakshmipathy Balaji Poised To Become Tamil Nadu Coach; Rahul Tripathi Returns To Maharashtra

With the new domestic cricket season on the horizon, several state teams are actively seeking new coaches. Lakshmipathy Balaji, a former India pacer, is reportedly set to become Tamil Nadu's new coach. Last season, Balaji served as Tamil Nadu's bowling coach.

Cricbuzz has reported that Lakshmipathy Balaji will replace Sulakshan Kulkarni as Tamil Nadu's head coach. Kulkarni ended his two-year contract with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) after one season due to differences with the captain and the association. Kulkarni has now been appointed as the coach of Maharashtra.

In Odisha, Dinesh Mongia has been replaced by Surendra Bhave. Bhave is a former national selector and Maharashtra player. Tripura, another team from the East Zone, is also in search of a new coach.

A Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) official confirmed to Cricbuzz that they are negotiating with Wasim Jaffer for a coaching role. Jaffer, a former India opener and the highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy history, was speculated to be considered for the head coach position of Punjab Kings in IPL. However, he is now in contention to become the coach of Punjab's state team.

Meanwhile, Rahul Tripathi has returned to his home state of Maharashtra after playing for Goa last season. The Maharashtra team has also signed Rajneesh Gurbani from Vidarbha for the upcoming season of Ranji Trophy 2024-25, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 and Irani Cup 2024.

Maharashtra Team Updates

The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has appointed Ruturaj Gaikwad as the captain for all three formats this season. This move aims to bring stability and leadership across formats for Maharashtra.

The domestic cricket scene is buzzing with these coaching changes and player movements as teams prepare for an exciting season ahead.