The Chappell Way (A): A Case Study in Team Building and Group Dynamics

Abstract:

This case is about the coaching style adopted by Australian cricket legend, Greg Chappell (Chappell) as the coach of the high profile Indian cricket team. The case discusses the various initiatives undertaken by Chappell to bring about a radical change in the Indian team as part of his 'Vision 2007' and make them top contenders for the 2007 World Cup. The coaching method, which was personally researched by Chappell and his business partner Frazer, was very unconventional. In addition to unusual training drills, the team members also took part in lectures on concepts in lateral thinking and other concepts and methods that are generally used in management training.

The case also discusses the public spat between Chappell and India's most successful captain Sourav Ganguly (Ganguly) which led to the ouster of Ganguly from the team. The team had a very good run in the 2005-06 cricketing season in the One Day Internationals. Chappell's coaching method and his emphasis on process was widely appreciated. He was approached by many corporate houses to take sessions on team building. The Indian cricket team seemed to be on the right track. However, Chappell's handling of the issue related to Ganguly, who had many loyal supporters in the team, was criticized. Some experts felt that Chappell lacked the human touch and cultural sensitivity that was so important for the success of a coach. They felt that though the team was doing well in the short-term the long term ramifications for the team was ominous. The case will help understand various issues in human resource management and organizational behavior and generalizations can be made to the corporate work environment.

Issues:

» Understand the issues and constraints in team building and team management

» Understand the various concepts of group dynamics, change management, conflict management, etc

» Appreciate the importance of people skills for a coach / leader / manager

» Understand the issues and constraints in coaching a team (Generalizations can be made to coaching in a corporate setting)

Contents:

Key Words:

Indian cricket, Coaching and Mentoring, Greg Chappell, Management training, Team building, Group dynamics, Organizational development, Attitude, Leadership, SWOT analysis, Performance management, Chappellway, BCCI, personality, People skills, People management, Six hats technique, Lateral thinking, communication, Change agent.

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