Whatmore takes academy job

India's National Cricket Academy have appointed former Sri Lanka and Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore as its director of operations.

The 53-year-old Australian was left off the shortlist for the vacant head coach position that has been available since Greg Chappell's exit in March.

New NCA chairman Ravi Shastri said: "Dav Whatmore is going to be head of operations for three years.

"I am glad to have him on board because he is one of the best in the business."

Whatmore guided Sri Lanka to World Cup triumph in 1996 and helped minnows Bangladesh reach the second round at this year's tournament after a shock win over India.

He quit his post as Bangladesh coach on 29 May, and was overlooked for the roles in India and Pakistan.

He is expected to begin his new Bangalore-based role at the end of this month.

India have been without a coach since Chappell resigned after their first round exit at the World Cup.

South African Graham Ford turned down India's coaching offer in June and the board has since advertised the post.

Former Test captain Bishan Bedi has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India to appoint a new coach quickly to help relieve the pressure on captain Mahendra Dhoni.

"The BCCI has a tendency to let the captain be on his own after appointing him," he said.

"They tend to throw him in at the deep end and let him fend for himself. Dhoni needs to be protected. He is a nice, clean man and his success is important for India."

A committee has been formed to consider the 20 applications that have been received and the team is expected to have a full-time coach in place for the tour of Australia in December.

Source: BBC Sport