Andy Flower Rules Out India Head Coach Application, Hints at Karthik's Coaching Future

Following their elimination from the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) head coach Andy Flower has ruled out applying for the position of India's head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had invited applications for the role, with the tenure starting from July 1, 2022, and concluding on December 31, 2027.

Flower emphasized his commitment to franchise cricket, stating, "I am happy with my involvement in the franchise league at the moment. I am really enjoying it. It is fascinating stuff and I have worked with some amazing organizations and I am happy with that at the moment."

Regarding wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik's future, Flower hinted at a potential transition into coaching. "He quite likes the idea of coaching as well -- helping and working with other people which I am not surprised about. He will be a great success when he does that as well," Flower said.

In the eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), RCB posted 172/8, with Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, and Mahipal Lomror contributing significant runs. However, RR bowlers, led by Avesh Khan, restricted RCB's scoring.

In the chase, RR got off to a strong start with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tom Kohler Cadmore, but RCB bowlers applied pressure and picked up wickets. Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, and Rovman Powell then led RR's charge in the latter stages, securing a four-wicket victory with an over to spare.

Mohammed Siraj was the standout bowler for RCB, while Ravichandran Ashwin, who also scored 26 runs, was named 'Player of the Match.' RR will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 on May 24, with the winner advancing to the final against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 26.

Tags: #IPL, #RCB, #AndyFlower, #DineshKarthik, #Coaching