Date:09/07/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/07/09/stories/2008070961622200.htm

Sport - Cricket

TNCA decision on new coach soon

Special Correspondent

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) secretary K.S. Viswanathan has said the coach for the State side will be decided during the Executive Committee meeting on July 11.

The present coach, W.V. Raman’s term ends in September — before the start of the new season — and the TNCA is expected to take a decision soon.

Mr. Viswanathan told The Hindu here on Tuesday, “I have heard that Raman has received an offer from Bengal. He has, however, informed us that Tamil Nadu will be his first priority. We have an open mind.”

He said the new State selection committee and various other panels would also be finalised during the EC meeting on Friday evening. The naming of the support staff for the State side could, however, take a little more time.

“We are keen that the new selection panel members watch the league matches from the initial phase,” said Mr. Viswanathan.

Difficult phase

The TNCA secretary admitted that the State side was going through a difficult, transitional phase. “We are keen to nurture young talent. The TNCA Academy organises camps in all age groups. We have former champions guiding the aspirants. We had a separate talent hunt for under-16 and under-19 bowlers by former stalwarts. I am sure the results will start coming,” he said.