Former India head coach Rahul Dravid has reportedly emerged as a surprise contender for England’s vacant Test coaching role following the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to part ways with Brendon McCullum as red-ball coach.
According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, Dravid is among several high-profile names being considered as England look to revive their Test fortunes after a disappointing run of results. McCullum, who took charge in May 2022, has been relieved of his Test responsibilities but will continue to oversee England’s white-ball teams.
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The ECB’s search for a new coach reportedly includes former England coach Andy Flower, Glamorgan head coach Richard Dawson, Kumar Sangakkara, Andrew Flintoff, Mike Hesson and Justin Langer. However, Dravid’s inclusion has generated significant interest given his impressive coaching record with India.
Dravid served as India’s head coach between 2021 and 2024, guiding the team through one of its most successful periods. Under his leadership, India became the first Asian nation to simultaneously hold the No. 1 ranking in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. The team also won the 2023 Asia Cup, reached the finals of the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship, and ended an 11-year ICC trophy drought by lifting the 2024 T20 World Cup without losing a match.
Beyond results, Dravid has earned widespread praise for developing young talent and building a strong team culture, qualities that could appeal to England as they seek a fresh direction following the decline of the ‘Bazball’ era. England won 11 of their first 13 Tests under McCullum but managed only three victories in their final 12 matches, culminating in a 2-1 home series defeat to New Zealand.
Whether Dravid would accept such an offer remains uncertain. The report claims the 52-year-old currently has “no desire” to return to full-time coaching. However, the England Test role, with its lighter schedule compared to an all-format international position, could allow him to spend more time at home while remaining involved in his preferred format of the game.
