Laxmi Ratan Shukla set to continue as Bengal coach; new roles for Wriddhiman Sah – Laxmi Ratan Shukla Retains Bengal Coaching Role; Key Appointments for Saha and Tiwary

Rafiq Hasan · 27/05/2026 · 4 min read

Stability at the Helm: Laxmi Ratan Shukla Continues

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has signaled a firm commitment to stability as it prepares for the upcoming domestic cricket season. Following an extensive interview process, the association has confirmed that former Indian all-rounder Laxmi Ratan Shukla will continue in his role as the head coach of the Bengal senior men’s team. This decision comes after a thorough review of the team’s performance, which has shown marked improvement under his stewardship.

Shukla’s tenure has been characterized by consistent results on the domestic circuit. Most notably, under his tactical guidance, Bengal reached the Ranji Trophy semifinals on two occasions and made a significant appearance in the final. CAB officials expressed high satisfaction with the progress made in the dressing room, citing the need for continuity as a primary factor in their decision to retain his services.

New Horizons for Saha and Tiwary

While the senior team maintains a sense of continuity, the youth ranks are set for a major transition with the involvement of two stalwarts of Bengal cricket. Former Indian wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha is set to continue his coaching journey as the head coach of the Bengal Under-23 men’s team. Saha’s vast experience at the highest level is expected to be a massive asset for the budding cricketers looking to break into the senior setup.

Perhaps the most intriguing development is the appointment of former India batter Manoj Tiwary. Having recently retired from professional cricket, Tiwary has transitioned into a new chapter of his career. CAB has tasked him with the responsibility of coaching the Bengal Under-19 squad. This marks Tiwary’s first significant coaching assignment, and his transition from the political sphere back to the cricket field is being watched with great interest by fans and pundits alike.

Coaching Staff Shake-ups and New Additions

The coaching restructuring has not come without changes to the existing staff. While the senior team sees stability at the top, there is a notable shift in the support staff. Mumbai’s experienced coach Surendra Bhave is widely expected to join the senior side as an assistant coach and batting specialist. Bhave brings a wealth of domestic experience and a deep understanding of batting mechanics, which could prove pivotal for the Bengal middle order.

However, the transition has also led to the departure of former Bengal spinner Saurasish Lahiri. Lahiri has been a highly successful coach in recent years and has frequently been called upon by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence for various projects. While his departure is considered a surprise given his track record, reports suggest that CAB may look to engage him in a different capacity in the future.

The Shaun Tait Factor: A Potential Game Changer

One of the most significant pieces of the puzzle remains the senior bowling coach position. While the role has not been officially filled, rumors have gained momentum regarding the potential arrival of former Australian fast bowler Shaun Tait. Tait, who is currently under contract with the Bangladesh Cricket Board through the 2027 ICC World Cup, is reportedly a top candidate for the job.

Sources indicate that Tait is awaiting formal discussions with CAB before making a definitive decision. If the deal materializes, it would be a major coup for Bengal cricket, bringing a world-class mentor to groom the state’s fast bowling talent. The association remains optimistic that clarity on this appointment will be reached in the coming weeks.

As Bengal gears up for the challenges of the upcoming domestic season, the focus remains on building a robust pipeline of talent. With a blend of experienced coaches like Shukla and Bhave, and the infusion of recently retired icons like Saha and Tiwary, the Cricket Association of Bengal is clearly aiming for a blend of mentorship and tactical evolution.

Rafiq Hasan

Rafiq Hasan is the chief cricket correspondent for The Daily Star, Bangladesh's largest English-language newspaper. Over his two-decade career, he has chronicked the rise of Bangladesh cricket from perennial underdogs to a formidable force in world cricket. Hasan has covered every major ICC event featuring Bangladesh and reported from the press boxes of Lord's, the MCG, and Mirpur. He has a deep understanding of the country's cricket ecosystem—from the Dhaka Premier League rivalries to the politics of the BCB. Known for his balanced analysis and insider access to the dressing room, he wrote the widely acclaimed long-form series "Tigers' Roar: How Bangladesh Changed the Cricket Map." A graduate of the University of Dhaka, Hasan is also a respected voice on global cricket diplomacy, exploring how the sport affects the balance of power in South Asia.