India's new cricket coach Duncan Fletcher could earn Rs 78 lakh per year, a similar amount which his predecessor Gary Kirsten earned, it is learnt.

Fletcher will also be given perks like house rent while the Board of Control for Cricket in India will reimburse his phone bills. Apart from this, the board will bear his air travel expenses when he has to return home to South Africa.

Sources told MiD DAY that Fletcher has Kirsten to thank for his appointment. Both are based in Cape Town. Apparently, Fletcher found approval with a couple of senior players and the BCCI went ahead and made him an offer.

It cannot be said that all senior players are delighted with his appointment since Fletcher has been known to be controversial just like Greg Chappell, who was coach from 2005 to 2007. However, the players are convinced that Fletcher won't tamper with their natural style.

The Zimbabwean is know to encourage players to play freely as long as it doesn't hurt the side too much.