Ramesh Powar has been re-appointed as the head coach of India Women. He will replace WV Raman, who took charge in December 2018 after Powar’s previous stint came to an end in the aftermath of a bitter fallout with Mithali Raj.
Powar’s decision to leave Raj out in the semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2018 drew widespread criticism, with the latter publicly accusing him of humiliating and denting her confidence. India lost the semifinal to England. Powar was sacked.
Since then, Powar has worked at different levels, the most recent being the head coach of the Mumbai side that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy a few months ago.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) received 35 applications for this coveted post, out of which eight names were shortlisted. Powar’s name was finalised by a three-member Cricket Advisory Committee, led by Madan Lal.
Meanwhile, Raman’s tenure coincided with a screeching halt of women's cricket due to the COVID-19-induced pandemic. During his stint, India reached the final of the 2020 T20 World Cup, where they lost to Australia.
However, India next played an international match 364 days later. When they did, they lost both the five-match ODI series and the three-match T20I series against South Africa at home. Raman’s job came under scrutiny.
"All the best @imrameshpowar with the @BCCIWomen in this spell.. Look forward to seeing the girls soar under your guidance…," tweeted Raman.
All the best @imrameshpowar with the @BCCIWomen in this spell.. Look forward to seeing the girls soar under your guidance..
— WV Raman (@wvraman) May 13, 2021
Powar’s first assignment in the new role will be India’s tour of England for six limited-overs matches and a Test match in Bristol. The squad is scheduled to depart on 2 June, alongside India Men.