Chittagong, May 16: India's search for a new cricket coach gained momentum today with Dav Whatmore expressing serious intetest amidst reports that the BCCI has approached him and Board President Sharad Pawar might discuss with him during the weekend.

"I am an interested candidate for taking up the job. I will coach the team that needs me the most," Whatmore, who will quit as Bangladesh's coach at the end of the current India series, told but would not discuss details.

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Asked if the BCCI was in negotiation with him, Whatmore said "that is not for public consumption." Reports said that Indian team's Cricket Manager Ravi Shastri had spoken to Whatmore on taking up the assignment but the Australian refused to confirm it.

Pawar, who is to travel to Bangladesh on an invitation from the host cricket board, is expected to discuss the issue with Whatmore who, if selected, will succeed compatriot Greg Chappell.

Whatmore, who led Sri Lanka to World Cup victory in 1996, also recently negatived an offer from Pakistan to take over as coach from the late Bob Woolmer. (Agencies)