Anil Kumble wants Zaheer Khan as bowling coach?

MUMBAI: Zaheer Khan might soon begin the second innings of his career as Team India's bowling coach. TOI has learnt that Zaheer's name for the job was proposed by his former India teammate, leg spin great Anil Kumble during the current Indian coach's meeting with office-bearers of the BCCI and members of the Committee of Administrators (CoA) in Hyderabad on May 21, before the IPL final.
While none of the officials were willing to come on record to confirm the development, a reliable source confirmed the news. "Yes, Kumble wants a bowling coach for the team, and he has recommended Zaheer's name for the role," he said. It's not clear if Zaheer, who took 311 wickets in 92 Tests, and 282 scalps in 200 ODIs, will join Team India in England for the Champions Trophy in June. "We'll discuss Kumble's proposals at an appropriate forum," was all an official was willing to say.
Apparently, the 38-year-old was approached by the BCCI to be the India bowling coach last year too, but both the parties couldn't reach a consensus on the terms and conditions of his contract. At that time, Zaheer didn't want to join the team on a full-time basis and had asked for Rs 4 crore for 100 days' service in a year, which the Board felt was too expensive deal.
Wants promotion for Bangar
It's also learnt that Kumble wants a promotion for former Sanjay Bangar, who's part of the support staff with Team India. "He wants Bangar to be made the assistant coach. Currently, he's the batting coach of the team," said an official. "It remains to be seen if the BCCI accedes to Kumble's request, because an assistant coach's salary is Rs 4 crores," he added.
The India coach has asked for a permanent, professional manager to accompany the team at all times. "Currently, the Board deputes any of its state association officials for the job. Kumble wants a professional administrator to be the permanent manager of the team," said a source.