As speculation mounted on whether Greg Chappell would be retained as coach of the Indian team following the World Cup debacle, a former Board of Control for Cricket in India president on Tuesday said the Australian should be retained and called for the sacking of biomechanist Ian Frazer instead.
He described Chappell as a "good strategist" and said his services were required to get the team back on track.
"Do not sack, Greg. He is a good strategist. What do you need at this time of crisis is a strategist and Greg is not playing any politics. Ian Fraser should be shown the exit door," he told PTI on condition of anonymity.
He blamed Frazer, the biomechanist who is doubling up as unofficial bowling coach of India, for dividing the team.
"I gather that Ian Fraser is the culprit in dividing players. After all, we do not require a biomechanic or a bowling coach. I think Greg will agree with me on this," he added.
He also claimed that Chappell wanted to earn more through advertisements like his predecessor John Wright but he was denied permission.
"While finalising his contract, Greg wanted to earn from advertisements and endorsements but two of the members of that committee told the coach in no uncertain terms that he is not allowed to do it and the Aussie agreed to the Board's decision," he said.
"When he left the Indian shores to the Caribbean Islands, Greg wanted his contract to be renewed," he added.
