The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) is looking for a new head coach for the senior men’s team. From Indian greats to international stars, Wasim Jaffer is one of the many big names who have applied for the top job in the domestic arena.
CAB had invited applications for various coach roles and support staff for the Bengal cricket team, with the deadline set for Friday, May 1. According to a report by RevSportz, around 75 candidates have applied for the post of senior men’s Bengal head coach.
key points
- CAB is looking for the new head coach of Bengal
- About 75 candidates have applied
- Wasim Jaffer among the main contenders
- International names like Shaun Tait are also in the running
Wasim Jaffer in race to become head coach of Bengal
The biggest name in the race to become the head coach of Bengal is Wasim Jaffer. The former Indian opening batsman is being seen as a strong contender for this post. After ending his playing career in 2020, Jaffer has built a solid CV as a coach, apart from being a cricket pundit.
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Jaffer has worked with teams like Punjab, Uttarakhand and Odisha in domestic cricket and has also mentored young players as a batting consultant for Bangladesh Under-19. He also served as the batting coach for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL. With over 19,000 runs in first-class cricket, his experience makes him a very strong contender for the top role.
The second big name is that of Bengal’s current coach Lakshmi Ratan Shukla. He wants to continue in this role. Since taking charge in 2022, Shukla has done a great job by leading Bengal to the semi-finals and final of the Ranji Trophy. Many CAB officials are also happy with Shukla’s work and are supporting him for another stint with the state cricket team.
Shaun Tait, Ben Hilfenhaus among 75 applicants for job
The race has become even more exciting with the involvement of international names. Former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait has also applied. He is currently working as a fast bowling coach with the Bangladesh cricket team and has previous experience of playing with teams like Pakistan, West Indies and Afghanistan.
Along with Tait, another former Australian fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus is also in contention. There are also strong local names like Manoj Tiwari and Wriddhiman Saha in the mix. He is looking forward to taking up a new challenge after his playing career.
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Interestingly, current Bengal player Anustup Majumdar has also included his name in the race for head coach. The next stage will be the interview, where the shortlisted names will present their plans and ideas to the team. After that the final decision will be taken.
Bengal’s Ranji season was strong
In the 2025–26 Ranji season, Bengal reached the semi-finals, where they lost to Jammu and Kashmir by six wickets. Even though he missed the final, his overall performance was excellent.
During the group stage, Bengal topped Elite Group C with 36 points under the captaincy of Abhimanyu Easwaran, while Abhishek Porel served as the vice-captain.
FAQ
- Who has applied for the post of Bengal head coach?
Around 75 candidates including Wasim Jaffer and Shaun Tait. - Is Wasim Jaffer a favourite?
He is being considered one of the main contenders. - Who is the current coach?
Laxmi Ratan Shukla, who is also seeking another term.
