Not just kingdom, Greg gets keys too

All this, and a two-year unconditional contract too. John Wright should be so lucky.

This largesse from the BCCI comes as a surprise as, in the past, it has been famous for its clinging on to autonomy ways and keeping its coaches powerless. If, as is believed, Chappell was desperate for the job and had given up his lofty financial demands (they cost him the job five years ago), the board sounded equally needful of the South Australian.

The board president was very secretive of the terms and conditions of the two-year contract, suggesting there might be a major surprise in the kind and extent of autonomy Chappell might get.

At his press conference, the new coach said a major part of his job would be making the tough decisions. Perhaps on the lines of the Australian board, who had to axe big names such as Allan Border and the Waughs. ‘‘Certain things are non-negotiable, and if we want to be the best team, we will need commitment to excellence.’’

Chappell also said he intended to bring in a lot of support from personnel both from and outside India — different people with different levels of experience and knowledge of different conditions. The board had obviously agreed to arranging such support, when and where required.

The kind of faith shown in Chappell is unprecedented and could mark the beginning of a new era in Indian cricket. John Wright had, in the final few months of his tenure, spoken of problems with the Indian selection process. Given the indications, Greg and ‘Team Chappell’ might not have to face such troubles.