Slow coach?

The swift appointment of the coach has proved that the Board of Control for Cricket in India can cut through the red tape at double speed when they want to. The appointment of Greg Chappell came within two weeks of naming the six-member selection panel. It followed severe criticism from the media, this paper included, for apparent dragging of feet, with Sri Lanka and South Africa also on the hunt for a coach. But the BCCI obviously knew the ways of cricket better than most: It got its man without any compromises

May 6: A panel of six is announced. Jagmohan Dalmiya the surprise name. Greg Chappell, Dean Jones, Tom Moody, and Dav Whatmore in race

May 8: Jones out of contention, Mohinder Amarnath and Sandeep Patil, without even applying, are brought in

May 9: It8217;s learnt that Sri Lanka are interested in Moody and Chappell, BCCI seems unruffled

May 10: Mahendra reveals 2-3 more names in the reckoning; John Inverarity denies interest, Desmond Haynes8217;s name crops up

May 19: Though marred by delays, the interviews are conducted in due mannery 20: After a two-hour meeting, Greg Chappell is named Indian coach, subject to Working Committee8217;s confirmation

May 20: After a two-hour meeting, Greg Chappell is named Indian coach, subject to Working Committee8217;s confirmation