Despite being among the most prolific batsmen on the domestic circuit for almost two decades, the India dressing room eluded Amol Muzumdar. But his second innings, as a coach, has presented him with the biggest assignment at the right time.
The former Mumbai captain was announced as South Africa’s interim batting coach on Monday for its three-Test series in India, to be played in October.
“It means a lot. It’s an international assignment, a huge opportunity and am looking forward to it. Obviously India in India is a big challenge but that’s the name of the game,” an excited Muzumdar told The Hindu after Cricket South Africa announced his appointment. The series will be South Africa’s maiden assignment in the World Test Championship.
Impressive CV
Muzumdar was among the shortlisted candidates for the post of India’s batting coach — before Vikram Rathour replaced Sanjay Bangar — and the NCA batting coach. But once CSA got in touch with him last week, Muzumdar, who has an impressive CV as coach both in terms of qualification and exposure, grabbed the opportunity.
“It seemed that (NCA batting coach) was not happening. And this is an international assignment, so I didn’t think twice before accepting it,” said Muzumdar.
Being a certified high-performance coach by the BCCI, Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board, Muzumdar has in the last five years worked with the Netherlands national team, the India Under-19 and India Under-23 outfits. But he stressed that his two seasons with Rajasthan Royals as batting coach have helped him immensely.
“Of course doing the IPL with Rajasthan Royals has given a platform and the exposure to coaching. I hope I can translate it at the highest level,” said Muzumdar, a winner of eight Ranji Trophy titles, besides being the second-highest run-getter in India’s premier domestic tournament.
Timing critical
Timing is said to be critical for a batsman, with the willow as well as for an opportunity at the highest level. Despite scoring heavily for almost two decades, an international call-up eluded Muzumdar during his playing days.
As he prepares to join South Africa’s squad on September 20, the 44-year-old hopes he can make the new opportunity count, considering it “has come at the right time”.
