Ryan ten Doeschate requests release from India's coaching set-up

LONDON: India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate is reportedly considering stepping down from his role, with the third and final One-day International (ODI) against England on July 19 likely to be his final assignment with the national team.

According to reports, the former Netherlands all-rounder has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to leave and has requested to be relieved of his duties.

Reports also indicate that his decision is driven entirely by personal reasons rather than dissatisfaction with the role, and any departure is expected to be amicable, with both parties parting on mutually agreed terms.

Ten Doeschate joined India's coaching staff two years ago after being recommended by head coach Gautam Gambhir. His initial contract with the BCCI is understood to have recently expired, with his tenure believed to have concluded between July 12 and 14.

India are currently touring England, and if his request is approved by the BCCI and Gambhir, he is expected to leave the team following the conclusion of the ODI series at Lord's.

The 45-year-old is believed to have taken the decision in order to spend more time with his family in London. With three young sons and his wife working, he reportedly wants a coaching role that requires less travel and allows for a better work-life balance.

Another factor is understood to be the overlap in coaching responsibilities. While ten Doeschate's primary area of expertise is fielding, India's fielding coach T Dilip already oversees that department, limiting his involvement in that aspect of the team's preparations.

Despite this, ten Doeschate has enjoyed a strong working relationship with Gambhir, who has frequently praised his contribution and played a key role in bringing him into the national set-up after becoming India's head coach.

Reports suggest Gambhir values ten Doeschate's input across several areas, raising the possibility that he could attempt to persuade him to remain with the coaching staff, particularly as India continue to search for consistency in their performances.

However, unless there is a change of heart, the third ODI against England is expected to mark the end of ten Doeschate's two-year stint with the Indian team.