The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has decided to invite applications for a range of cricketing roles, including coaches and selectors, after nearly two decades of relying on internal screening. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising former internationals Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Joshi, along with KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad and vice-president Sujith Somasundar, resolved to adopt an open application process during a meeting on Saturday.
Open application process for transparency
Applications have been invited for key roles such as selectors, coaches, performance analysts, masseurs, and sidearm specialists across age-group and senior teams for both men and women. Positions are also open at the KSCA high-performance academy. Somasundar explained, “It’s about transparency, integrity, honesty, and value-driven processes put in place by the CAC, which comprises some of the best cricketers.”
Wider choice and fairness
“When you open it up for people to apply, you have a wider choice. People who are good and not on our radar might apply as well. It’s fair that we open it up so that we cover everybody in the cricketing fraternity to apply and be heard,” Somasundar added. For coaching roles, the minimum eligibility criterion is a BCCI Level 1 certification, with an upper age limit of 60.
Eligibility criteria for selectors
Selectors for various age groups and senior teams must have represented Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy, while women selectors should have played for the state senior women’s team. Applicants should not hold any conflicting roles under the BCCI or its affiliated bodies.
Preference for local candidates
While applications are open to candidates from across the country, Somasundar said the association would prefer suitable candidates from within Karnataka. “We prefer somebody from the state because it aligns with our vision of creating opportunities not just for players but also for other stakeholders. Coaches and support staff from within the state understand the culture and background better,” he said. “In high-performance roles, relationships are key. Building rapport with players is easier when there is cultural and linguistic familiarity. We also believe we have a lot of capable coaches within the system,” he stated. However, he added, “While we are looking for candidates from Karnataka, we are not limiting it.”
Application timeline
The KSCA issued a notification on its website on Sunday, with May 11 set as the deadline for applying. Somasundar said the association was hopeful to complete the interview and hiring process by the end of the month.
