Family first, Anshuman Gaekwad says no to Sri Lanka, Kenya

Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) might have dashed a two-sentence letter to Anshuman Gaekwad informing him about the termination of his contract with Motera stadium last month.

Even the Indian cricket board might not have shown interest in seeking his services to help the struggling Team India in England. But the former opening batsman and Team India coach continues to be one of the most wanted cricket strategists.

Gaekwad, 58, was disappointed with the unceremonious exit. "This wasn't expected of them (GCA). They should have had informed me in a better way at the least, if not in person then with a phone call. Instead they just sent me a two-sentence letter," said Gaekwad, who felt the pain even as he narrated the story.

When asked if he intends to meet GCA president Narendra Modi, Gaekwad said, "I am trying to fix an appointment with the GCA president and planning to go to Gandhinagar. I have a feeling that the president wasn't kept in the loop when this decision was taken. So I want to sort the matter out with him."

One can buy Gaekwad's theory because in 2010, chief minister Modi at a public function had announced: "Meine cricket ki sari javabdari Anshuman ko saup di hai (I have handed Anshuman all the responsibilities of cricket)." Moreover, Gaekwad claimed that there was a good understanding between him and the players.

Gaekwad said he had started his second stint with GCA based on certain conditions. "I had said yes (to coach in 2009) in good faith, without asking for a documentary contract. Having worked with the boys in the past, I thought it was a good deal. It (Ahmedabad) is close to my home, so it was an ideal condition. But it boomeranged. They didn't adhere to their promise, especially about paying the coaches well. They neither paid them well nor increased my salary as they had promised," Gaekwad remarked.

However, the son of former India captain DK Gaekwad continues to be one of the better readers of the game. Not surprisingly, recently, two cricket boards, Sri Lanka and Kenya contacted Gaekwad for his services. But the former India coach politely declined citing family commitments. "The (SL and Kenya) boards did approach me but I have my family commitments. Such assignments will keep me away for months together, which I don't want. I have been away from home for a long time and would like to stay with my family now," said the Vadodara-based former Test cricketer who represented the country at 40 Tests and two World Cups.

Gaekwad coached the national team in two breaks during his tenure, from October 1997 to September 1999 and August 2000 to October 2000. He replaced Madan Lal when India was going through a difficult phase in 1997. Gaekwad remained with Team India for a few years, which were like a roller coaster ride. If there were a few unforgettable moments like World Cup '99 mess, there were times like Anil Kumble's perfect ten against Pakistan in February '99, which has been a highlight of his coaching stint.