In Pics | Top contenders to replace Ravi Shastri as India head coach

Ravi Shastri in a recent interview hinted at a possible exit from the Indian cricket team. "I believe one thing – never overstay your welcome. And I would say that, in terms of what I wanted to get out of the side, I've over-achieved. To beat Australia away and to lead the series in England in a Covid year? It is the most satisfying moment of my four decades in cricket," Shastri said. As the 59-year-old gears up to step down, here is a look at the top contenders to succeed him as India head coach.

Rahul Dravid: Lauded for his work with the India U-19 side and as director of the National Cricket Academy, Rahul Dravid is one of the frontrunners for the India head coach job. Earlier this year, Dravid helmed a second-string India side that toured Sri Lanka for a white ball series. Credit: PTI File Photo

Anil Kumble: The Punjab Kings head coach is another candidate in contention to succeed Ravi Shastri having helmed the Indian cricket team before him. His one-year stint that began in 2016 ended after a fall-out with skipper Virat Kohli. Credit: AFP File Photo

VVS Laxman: Former India batsman Laxman is another probable candidate for the role of India head coach. Laxman is currently associated with IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad as a mentor and also dabbles in punditry. Should he be selected, he would have to give up all other posts. Credit: PTI File Photo