The position has been vacant since Greg Chappell's resignation following the side's shock early exit from the World Cup, with former Bangladesh coach Whatmore one of the favourites for the role.

However, the BCCI on Tuesday revealed plans to hold talks with the shortlisted candidates - Graham Ford and John Emburey.

Whatmore told The Telegraph: "All along, my stand was that if it's going to be, then it's going to be... I wish Indian cricket the very best.

"My good wishes will also be there with the next coach."

Australian Whatmore, also in the frame to become Pakistan's new coach and still wanted by Bangladesh, added: "I haven't said no to anyone. I'm just grateful to be home close to my family."

Meanwhile, former India skipper Sourav Ganguly will be Asia's vice-captain during the three-match (second) Afro-Asia Cup which got underway in Bangalore earlier on Wednesday.

Ganguly was not in the original squad but was called up as a replacement after Sachin Tendulkar withdrew for personal reasons.

Asia's selectors did not name a vice-captain when they chose the squad but skipper Mahela Jayawardene suggested that Ganguly be his deputy.

Asian Cricket Council chief executive Syed Ashraful Huq said: "Mahela said that he would like Sourav to take charge if he happened to go off the field.

"Being the vice-captain, Sourav would also then be part of the selection committee during the tournament."