The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results.<h2>How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free</h2>The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-india-s-smriti-mandhana-is-now-best-batter-ever-in-women-s-cricket-1788491747077">Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket</a>The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward.""The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries."<h2>What is next for the Indian men's cricket team?</h2>The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen to keep players fit after a recent spate of injuries to multiple players. The board, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief VVS Laxman, ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill, and T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, met in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 3) to discuss the matter. The top-brass meeting with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia came after recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England, as well as an ODI series loss against the latter. Many players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy, were either injured on the UK tour or in the lead-up to it, which eventually reflected in the results. How the BCCI plans to keep players injury-free The board secretary acknowledged, while talking after the Thursday meeting as reported by ESPNcricinfo, that "individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches." Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026: India's Smriti Mandhana is now best batter ever in women's cricket The players who were selected for the UK tour had played in the IPL for two months right before it, which "takes a toll on the health of the players as well. And to avoid those kinds of situations, what best we can do under the present windows and present FTPs, we are trying to find a way forward." "The only challenges which we are facing is that there are too many matches in the year and that is why in the next FTP, we will do certain things, we will take certain measures," he said. "We have instructed our FTP person, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation or friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries." What is next for the Indian men's cricket team? The Indian men's team recently returned from Sri Lanka, where they won the two-Test series 1-0. The team next plays three T20Is against Afghanistan on Sep 13, 15, and 17 in New Delhi. After that, the Indian team will compete in the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the board has announced a full-strength squad.

Following player injury concerns, the BCCI met with leadership—including Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer—to plan workload fixes and FTP scheduling changes for rest.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia shares how board is planning to keep players injury free

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a <a href="https://yas.gov.in/sites/default/files/Asian_Games_sanction_for_coaches_and_suppor_%20staff.pdf">circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs</a> and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's).<h2>Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026?</h2>This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-s-from-all-players-pakistan-skipper-babar-azam-exchange-with-uk-king-charles-goes-viral-1788425476025">'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral</a>The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah.<h2>What about the India women's team?</h2>The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) National Cricket Academy (NCA) director VVS Laxman is back as India men's head coach for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The continental event will run from September 19 to October 4 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya. Laxman will have a support staff of Sunil Joshi, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and new fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh. Laxman was also India's head coach for Asian Games 2023 where the team won the gold medal. The news was confirmed by a circular issued by India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Wednesday (Sep 2). The Asian Games cricket event will take place from September 17 to October 3 (men's and women's). Why VVS Laxman and not Gambhir coaching India men's team at Asian Games 2026? This is not the first time VVS Laxman has been roped in to coach the Indian side. He was recently the head coach for India's tour of Zimbabwe and has handled the responsibilities multiple times since 2022. For the Asian Games 2026, he has been asked to handle the head coach position as the India men's team schedule at the continental games will overlap with a home ODI series against West Indies. India's regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will be with the ODI squad at home during the series. Also Read - 'It's from all players': Babar's exchange with UK King Charles goes viral The India men's team has received a bye in the first round of the Asian Games and will play in their first match, a quarter-final, on September 28. The home ODI series against West Indies runs from September 27 to October 3. India has announced a full-strength squad for the Asian Games 2026 led by Shreyas Iyer and featuring players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Jasprit Bumrah. What about the India women's team? The India women's team, which is also the gold medal holder from the previous edition, will be coached by their regular staff of head coach Amol Muzumdar, bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, and fielding coach Munish Bali. The team will be led by Harmanpreet Kaur with Smriti Mandhana, who recently became women's cricket's highest run-getter, as her deputy.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games as regular coach Gautam Gambhir leads the ODI squad vs West Indies. Amol Muzumdar remains women's head coach.

Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Shreyas Iyer-led side

Indian cricket team's inury crisis has brought serious attention towards the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, headed by former batter VVS Laxman. Multiple players have been injured in the recent past with the latest being Sai Sudharsan, who has been withdrawn from upcoming Sri Lanka Test tour. Sai, along with Bumrah, was named in the Indian squad but both failed to recover in time, prompting their withdrawl. Laxman, meanwhile, has defended CoE's role and revealed that the centre is facing difficulties in hiring a new Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head, leading to these issues. BCCI is one of the richest boards in the world then why it is hard for them to hire a SSM head?<h2>Why BCCI is unable to hire a SSM head for CoE?</h2>Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head. The former batter cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-warm-up-why-didn-t-kuldeep-yadav-bowl-in-2nd-innings-india-coach-explains-1786294800829">IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings?</a>"After Nitin left, we did not get anyone who can fill in that position. We had Andrew Leipus, everything was agreed upon, in fact, Devajit had two or three meetings with him but suddenly Andrew backed off at the last moment citing family reasons. We conducted a full-fledged interview process where we had Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Dr. Ashish Soni, Dr. Rohan Khavte and myself, we shortlisted five candidates and number one was an Australian. After selecting him, suddenly he backed out saying he cannot move to Bengaluru," Laxman said."Another professional (who we selected) was head of sports science at All Blacks (New Zealand rugby team). We engaged with him and he almost agreed but at the last moment he too backed off," he added.<h2>What does a Sports Science and Medicine head do?</h2>A SSM head is responsible for players' injury, workload, and recovery management. WION had recently spoken to strength and conditioning expert Jivesh Bali who had also highlighted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/recovery-management-and-no-prehab-strength-and-conditioning-expert-shares-reason-behind-injuries-in-indian-cricket-1786085111228">'recovery' as the main reason for frequent injuries among players</a>."In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through," Bali had said.

Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a SSM head. He cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.

Indian cricket team's inury crisis has brought serious attention towards the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, headed by former batter VVS Laxman. Multiple players have been injured in the recent past with the latest being Sai Sudharsan, who has been withdrawn from upcoming Sri Lanka Test tour. Sai, along with Bumrah, was named in the Indian squad but both failed to recover in time, prompting their withdrawl. Laxman, meanwhile, has defended CoE's role and revealed that the centre is facing difficulties in hiring a new Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head, leading to these issues. BCCI is one of the richest boards in the world then why it is hard for them to hire a SSM head? Why BCCI is unable to hire a SSM head for CoE? Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) head. The former batter cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru. Also Read - IND vs SL, warm-up: Why didn’t Kuldeep Yadav bowl in 2nd innings? "After Nitin left, we did not get anyone who can fill in that position. We had Andrew Leipus, everything was agreed upon, in fact, Devajit had two or three meetings with him but suddenly Andrew backed off at the last moment citing family reasons. We conducted a full-fledged interview process where we had Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Dr. Ashish Soni, Dr. Rohan Khavte and myself, we shortlisted five candidates and number one was an Australian. After selecting him, suddenly he backed out saying he cannot move to Bengaluru," Laxman said. "Another professional (who we selected) was head of sports science at All Blacks (New Zealand rugby team). We engaged with him and he almost agreed but at the last moment he too backed off," he added. What does a Sports Science and Medicine head do? A SSM head is responsible for players' injury, workload, and recovery management. WION had recently spoken to strength and conditioning expert Jivesh Bali who had also highlighted 'recovery' as the main reason for frequent injuries among players. "In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through," Bali had said.

Laxman spoke at length about the CoE's role in players' injury management and recovery but shared that it is hard to do so without a SSM head. He cited potential candidates backing off at the last moment afte being selected, for vairous reasons including family and moving to Bengaluru.

CoE chief VVS Laxman explains why BCCI is unable to hire a Sports Science and Medicine head

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman said the facility has a much wider role than simply helping injured players recover, while highlighting the importance of monitoring systems in preventing and managing injuries.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Laxman said injuries are a normal part of every sportsperson’s career and stressed that no one should be blamed when a player suffers an injury.&nbsp;“CoE is not a rehab centre. There’s a bigger responsibility and mandate given by the BCCI,” Laxman said.&nbsp;“Injuries are part and parcel of any player’s career. That’s why the monitoring system is very critical. And we don’t use the term blame; then we will be trying to find scapegoats,” he added.&nbsp;Laxman’s comments came at a time when concerns have increased over the number of injuries affecting Indian players. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia met Laxman on Sunday to review the injury management and rehabilitation programme at the CoE.&nbsp;&nbsp;BCCI president Mithun Manhas and other senior officials also attended the press conference.&nbsp;Laxman also addressed the vacant position of Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) at the CoE and said that the BCCI has found it difficult to appoint the right person for the important role.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-yuvraj-singh-at-dc-trials-spark-ipl-2027-coaching-rumours-1786271352701">Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh at DC trials spark IPL 2027 coaching rumours</a>&nbsp;According to Laxman, the position requires more than just experience and reputation. The person must also understand the specific needs of Indian cricketers.&nbsp;“After Nitin (Patel) left, we couldn’t fill his shoes. Everything was agreed upon; Andrew (Leipus) backed off citing family reasons,” Laxman said.&nbsp;He revealed that the BCCI had shortlisted five candidates for the position, however, the top candidate, an Australian whose name was not revealed, later pulled out after deciding that he could not move to Bengaluru.&nbsp;“We shortlisted five candidates; No. 1 was Australian, can’t name him. He suddenly backed out, saying he can’t move to Bengaluru. It’s not a consultant role. You want the person to be there. It’s day-to-day monitoring,” Laxman said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashmita-chaliha-clinches-maiden-bwf-world-tour-title-at-korea-masters-1786269514501">Ashmita Chaliha clinches maiden BWF World Tour title at Korea Masters</a>&nbsp;Laxman added that the vertical heads at the CoE have taken on additional responsibilities because the Head of SSM position remains vacant.&nbsp;“Another professional, head of All Blacks… he agreed and backed out. To fill in that position, not just stature and experience, but understanding of Indian cricketers is important. With the Head of SSM position not filling, the vertical heads have stepped up,” he said.&nbsp;His comments come amid increasing scrutiny of the CoE’s injury-management system, as Indian players Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are among those currently undergoing rehabilitation at the facility. All three have been ruled out of India’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on Aug 15.&nbsp;The CoE is also overseeing the rehabilitation of several white-ball players, including Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Prince Yadav.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

VVS Laxman defended the BCCI Centre of Excellence amid India’s injury concerns, stressing that its role extends beyond rehabilitation and that injuries are part of a cricketer’s career.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman said the facility has a much wider role than simply helping injured players recover, while highlighting the importance of monitoring systems in preventing and managing injuries. Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, Laxman said injuries are a normal part of every sportsperson’s career and stressed that no one should be blamed when a player suffers an injury. “CoE is not a rehab centre. There’s a bigger responsibility and mandate given by the BCCI,” Laxman said. “Injuries are part and parcel of any player’s career. That’s why the monitoring system is very critical. And we don’t use the term blame; then we will be trying to find scapegoats,” he added. Laxman’s comments came at a time when concerns have increased over the number of injuries affecting Indian players. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia met Laxman on Sunday to review the injury management and rehabilitation programme at the CoE. BCCI president Mithun Manhas and other senior officials also attended the press conference. Laxman also addressed the vacant position of Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) at the CoE and said that the BCCI has found it difficult to appoint the right person for the important role. Also Read - Sourav Ganguly, Yuvraj Singh at DC trials spark IPL 2027 coaching rumours According to Laxman, the position requires more than just experience and reputation. The person must also understand the specific needs of Indian cricketers. “After Nitin (Patel) left, we couldn’t fill his shoes. Everything was agreed upon; Andrew (Leipus) backed off citing family reasons,” Laxman said. He revealed that the BCCI had shortlisted five candidates for the position, however, the top candidate, an Australian whose name was not revealed, later pulled out after deciding that he could not move to Bengaluru. “We shortlisted five candidates; No. 1 was Australian, can’t name him. He suddenly backed out, saying he can’t move to Bengaluru. It’s not a consultant role. You want the person to be there. It’s day-to-day monitoring,” Laxman said. Also Read - Ashmita Chaliha clinches maiden BWF World Tour title at Korea Masters Laxman added that the vertical heads at the CoE have taken on additional responsibilities because the Head of SSM position remains vacant. “Another professional, head of All Blacks… he agreed and backed out. To fill in that position, not just stature and experience, but understanding of Indian cricketers is important. With the Head of SSM position not filling, the vertical heads have stepped up,” he said. His comments come amid increasing scrutiny of the CoE’s injury-management system, as Indian players Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are among those currently undergoing rehabilitation at the facility. All three have been ruled out of India’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on Aug 15. The CoE is also overseeing the rehabilitation of several white-ball players, including Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy and Prince Yadav. With inputs from agencies

VVS Laxman defended the BCCI Centre of Excellence amid India’s injury concerns, stressing that its role extends beyond rehabilitation and that injuries are part of a cricketer’s career.

‘Not a rehab centre’: VVS Laxman defends BCCI CoE amid injury concerns

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly worried about the growing injury problems in the senior men’s team, as around 10 players are currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is expected to visit the CoE on Sunday to review the rehabilitation process and assess the current situation. According to a PTI report, Saikia will meet VVS Laxman, the head of the CoE, to discuss the issues.&nbsp;The CoE has been without a permanent head of Sports Science since Nitin Patel left the role in Mar 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Sai Sudharsan, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Aakashdeep, Ashok Sharma and Riyan Parag are among the players currently at the Bengaluru facility.&nbsp;“Yes, secretary Saikia will be in Bengaluru to take a stock of the situation along with VVS Laxman. There is a meeting scheduled between the two. It is not known whether head coach of national team Gautam Gambhir or chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar will join online or not. It will be interesting if both Saikia and Laxman can front up and answer a few media queries with so many conjectures,” a BCCI source in the know told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-s-father-jorge-passes-away-at-68-1786199062492">Lionel Messi’s father Jorge passes away at 68</a>&nbsp;There are growing concerns over the return-to-play procedures followed at the CoE, particularly after Harshit Rana suffered another injury soon after returning to action.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-sign-bruno-guimaraes-from-newcastle-united-1786193276320">Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United</a>&nbsp;Questions have also been raised about communication between the CoE and the selection committee, as a strong understanding between the two is important to ensure players return to matches only when they are fully ready.&nbsp;Recently, Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan were reportedly expected to feature in India’s two-Test series against Sri Lanka. However, both were ruled out at the last moment, forcing the selectors to look for replacements.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia will meet VVS Laxman in Bengaluru to review the rehabilitation of injured players at the Centre of Excellence. The meeting comes as concerns grow over the fitness of key players, including Bumrah and Pandya, who have suffered injuries in recent weeks.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly worried about the growing injury problems in the senior men’s team, as around 10 players are currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is expected to visit the CoE on Sunday to review the rehabilitation process and assess the current situation. According to a PTI report, Saikia will meet VVS Laxman, the head of the CoE, to discuss the issues. The CoE has been without a permanent head of Sports Science since Nitin Patel left the role in Mar 2025. Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Sai Sudharsan, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Aakashdeep, Ashok Sharma and Riyan Parag are among the players currently at the Bengaluru facility. “Yes, secretary Saikia will be in Bengaluru to take a stock of the situation along with VVS Laxman. There is a meeting scheduled between the two. It is not known whether head coach of national team Gautam Gambhir or chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar will join online or not. It will be interesting if both Saikia and Laxman can front up and answer a few media queries with so many conjectures,” a BCCI source in the know told PTI on conditions of anonymity. Also Read - Lionel Messi’s father Jorge passes away at 68 There are growing concerns over the return-to-play procedures followed at the CoE, particularly after Harshit Rana suffered another injury soon after returning to action. Also Read - Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United Questions have also been raised about communication between the CoE and the selection committee, as a strong understanding between the two is important to ensure players return to matches only when they are fully ready. Recently, Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan were reportedly expected to feature in India’s two-Test series against Sri Lanka. However, both were ruled out at the last moment, forcing the selectors to look for replacements. With inputs from agencies

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia will meet VVS Laxman in Bengaluru to review the rehabilitation of injured players at the Centre of Excellence. The meeting comes as concerns grow over the fitness of key players, including Bumrah and Pandya, who have suffered injuries in recent weeks.

Amid injury crisis, BCCI secretary set for crucial talks with COE head VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman, India head coach for Zimbabwe tour, says teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has matured a lot but must improve his overall fitness. The statement comes after Sooryavanshi helped India beat Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the third and final T20I of the series which the world champions won 3-0. The 15-year-old scored 81 off 49 balls and was named Player of the Match for his performance. Sooryavanshi had also hit a fifty in the first T20I as well and was named Player of the Series for 151 runs in three matches.<h2>Laxman shares improvement area for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi</h2>Laxman has seen Vaibhav from close quarters in the last 2-3 years including at BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE). The teenage batter got his India call up after impressing in his breakout IPL 2026 where he won the Orange Cap (most runs by a player in the tournament) for 776 runs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-test-injury-woes-hit-india-as-washington-sundar-doubtful-jasprit-bumrah-under-watch-saransh-jain-in-line-for-maiden-call-up-1785068392291">IND vs SL Test series: Washington Sundar doubtful, Jasprit Bumrah under watch</a>Laxman, while impressed with Sooryavanshi's growth, says: "The one area we want him to improve is his overall fitness. He's a very young boy. He himself wants to get better in every aspect of the game. Even today, when he got injured [while attempting a diving catch running in from deep square leg], he still wanted to stay on the field. It was our physio who asked him to come off. That's the eagerness and earnestness he has to contribute in every possible way to the team."<h2>What next for India and Sooryavanshi?</h2>India next play two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka and Vaibhav is not expected to be a part of it. After the Sri Lanka tour, India host West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is before heading to New Zealand for a full tour of five ODIs, five T20Is, and two Tests. Sooryavanshi might find a place in India T20I squad against West Indies at home and his performance ix expected to decide a place in New Zealand tour squad.

Sooryavanshi was named Player of the Series in IND vs ZIM three-T20I series for 151 runs including 81 in the final match.

VVS Laxman, India head coach for Zimbabwe tour, says teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has matured a lot but must improve his overall fitness. The statement comes after Sooryavanshi helped India beat Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the third and final T20I of the series which the world champions won 3-0. The 15-year-old scored 81 off 49 balls and was named Player of the Match for his performance. Sooryavanshi had also hit a fifty in the first T20I as well and was named Player of the Series for 151 runs in three matches. Laxman shares improvement area for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Laxman has seen Vaibhav from close quarters in the last 2-3 years including at BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE). The teenage batter got his India call up after impressing in his breakout IPL 2026 where he won the Orange Cap (most runs by a player in the tournament) for 776 runs. Also Read - IND vs SL Test series: Washington Sundar doubtful, Jasprit Bumrah under watch Laxman, while impressed with Sooryavanshi's growth, says: "The one area we want him to improve is his overall fitness. He's a very young boy. He himself wants to get better in every aspect of the game. Even today, when he got injured [while attempting a diving catch running in from deep square leg], he still wanted to stay on the field. It was our physio who asked him to come off. That's the eagerness and earnestness he has to contribute in every possible way to the team." What next for India and Sooryavanshi? India next play two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka and Vaibhav is not expected to be a part of it. After the Sri Lanka tour, India host West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is before heading to New Zealand for a full tour of five ODIs, five T20Is, and two Tests. Sooryavanshi might find a place in India T20I squad against West Indies at home and his performance ix expected to decide a place in New Zealand tour squad.

Sooryavanshi was named Player of the Series in IND vs ZIM three-T20I series for 151 runs including 81 in the final match.

IND vs ZIM: Laxman wants Sooryavanshi 'to improve his overall fitness'

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats.&nbsp;Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-how-much-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-earn-per-match-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-1766894788978">Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. &nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. &nbsp;"This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said.<h2>Gambhir’s future remains gloomy</h2>Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. &nbsp;A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats. Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach. Also read | Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. "This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said. Gambhir’s future remains gloomy Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

BCCI secretary denies ‘informal talks with Laxman’ reports, backs Gambhir as all-format coach

From Virender Sehwag to Sachin Tendulkar here is a look at five batters with highest individual Test scores for India vs South Africa at Eden Gardens. The list also features the likes of VVS Laxman, MS Dhoni and Mohammad Azharuddin. 

From Virender Sehwag to Sachin Tendulkar here is a look at five batters with highest individual Test scores for India vs South Africa at Eden Gardens. The list also features the likes of VVS Laxman, MS Dhoni and Mohammad Azharuddin.&nbsp;

From Virender Sehwag to Sachin Tendulkar, 5 batters with highest individual Test scores for India vs South Africa at Eden Gardens

From Wasim Jaffer to Rahul Dravid here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual Test score at Eden Gardens. The list has some legendary names including VVS Laxman, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sunil Gavaskar as the latest series against South Africa is set to take centre stage.

From Wasim Jaffer to Rahul Dravid here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual Test score at Eden Gardens. The list has some legendary names including VVS Laxman, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sunil Gavaskar as the latest series against South Africa is set to take centre stage.

From Wasim Jaffer to Rahul Dravid, 5 Indian batters with highest individual Test score at Eden Gardens

From VVS Laxman to Sachin Tendulkar here is a look at five batters with most Test runs at Eden Gardens. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, Mohammad Azharuddin and Dilip Vengsarkar as the latest series between India and South Africa is set to kickoff. 

From VVS Laxman to Sachin Tendulkar here is a look at five batters with most Test runs at Eden Gardens. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, Mohammad Azharuddin and Dilip Vengsarkar as the latest series between India and South Africa is set to kickoff.

From VVS Laxman to Sachin Tendulkar, 5 batters with most Test runs at Eden Gardens

From Sachin Tendulkar to Rahul Dravid here is a look at five Indian batters with most runs vs South Africa in Tests. The list also features prominent names like Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag and VVS Laxman as the latest series between India and South Africa is set to roll in. 

From Sachin Tendulkar to Rahul Dravid here is a look at five Indian batters with most runs vs South Africa in Tests. The list also features prominent names like Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag and VVS Laxman as the latest series between India and South Africa is set to roll in.&nbsp;

From Sachin Tendulkar to Rahul Dravid, 5 Indian batters with most runs vs South Africa in Tests

From Steve Smith to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and VVS Laxman

From Steve Smith to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This list also includes Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting and VVS Laxman

5 batters with most runs in Border-Gavaskar Trophy, check who tops the list

From Rahul Dravid to VVS Laxman here is a list of five Indian batters with most Test runs since 2000. The list also has mentions of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and former India captain Virat Kohli. 

From Rahul Dravid to VVS Laxman here is a list of five Indian batters with most Test runs since 2000. The list also has mentions of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and former India captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

From Rahul Dravid to VVS Laxman, 5 Indian batters with most Test runs since 2000

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli here is a look at five Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag. 

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli here is a look at five Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag.&nbsp;

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa

From Virat Kohli to VVS Laxman, 5 Indian batters with more ODI hundreds than Sachin Tendulkar on Australian soil. During his illustrious career Tendulkar managed to score only one hundred on Australian soil which came in March 2008. 

From Virat Kohli to VVS Laxman, 5 Indian batters with more ODI hundreds than Sachin Tendulkar on Australian soil. During his illustrious career Tendulkar managed to score only one hundred on Australian soil which came in March 2008.&nbsp;

From Virat Kohli to VVS Laxman, 5 Indian batters with more ODI hundreds than Sachin Tendulkar on Australian soil

From MS Dhoni to VVS Laxman, here is a look at five shocking names that have picked international wickets. The shocking list consists of names like Brian Lara, Rahul Dravid and Ricky Ponting as they too have international wickets to their name.

From MS Dhoni to VVS Laxman, here is a look at five shocking names that have picked international wickets. The shocking list consists of names like Brian Lara, Rahul Dravid and Ricky Ponting as they too have international wickets to their name.

From MS Dhoni to VVS Laxman, 5 shocking names who have international wickets to their name

After Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all formats, here is a look at seven batters with the most runs for India in the Test format. The list features legendary names like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly.

After Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all formats, here is a look at seven batters with the most runs for India in the Test format. The list features legendary names like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar, VVS Laxman Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 7 batters with more Test runs than Cheteshwar Pujara

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here is a look at five Indian batters dismissed on 99 in ODIs. The unfortunate list consists of star names like K Srikkanth, VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma as well.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here is a look at five Indian batters dismissed on 99 in ODIs. The unfortunate list consists of star names like K Srikkanth, VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma as well.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters dismissed on 99 in ODIs

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days. One of the legendary players, Ganguly shared the dressing room with some of the greats of the game including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. However, drawing back Ganguly shared an interesting story that made headlines in the Indian dressing room in 2003 when Laxman did not speak to him for three months. So what was the incident and what caused the friction between Ganguly and Laxman?<h2>Ganguly recalls infamous VVS Laxman moment</h2>"It has happened many times when we rested players. They were unhappy. Laxman being left out of the World Cup...he never spoke to me for three months. Then I made up with him. Anybody would get upset...for a World Cup. Especially a player of Laxman's calibre. Quite natural that he would get upset," Ganguly told PTI while recalling the moment when Laxman was dropped in 2003 World Cup squad.&nbsp;Laxman who played 86 ODIs and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, was dropped for the 2003 ODI World Cup by the Indian selectors in favour of Dinesh Mongia. Kiran More, who was part of the selection panel during the 2003 World Cup also opened up on the selection call while in conversation with former Pakistan player Rashid Latif.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Before the 2003 ODI World Cup selection meeting, we had a huge argument when the Indian team was playing in New Zealand. As per the inputs received from the captain and the coach, we selected a 14-member squad and asked them what they thought of it. Over the conference call, Ganguly had a different opinion. We had selected VVS Laxman as our middle-order batter. Ganguly was very smart. He was a brilliant captain, a person with a great cricketing brain. He said ‘we need an all-rounder,” More had told on former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif’s YouTube channel.&nbsp;Also Check - From Shubman Gill to Rishabh Pant: 5 Indian batters with most centuries in WTC history&nbsp;Ganguly recently spoke about how sad Laxman was when he was dropped from the squad. The two didn’t speak for months, but they eventually patched things up after the World Cup.&nbsp;The former middle-order batter made a strong comeback to the ODI set-up smashing three tons in the tri-series in Australia in January-February 2004. &nbsp;

Although VVS Laxman has played 86 ODIs for India and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, he never got a chance to play in a World Cup match.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days. One of the legendary players, Ganguly shared the dressing room with some of the greats of the game including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. However, drawing back Ganguly shared an interesting story that made headlines in the Indian dressing room in 2003 when Laxman did not speak to him for three months. So what was the incident and what caused the friction between Ganguly and Laxman? Ganguly recalls infamous VVS Laxman moment "It has happened many times when we rested players. They were unhappy. Laxman being left out of the World Cup...he never spoke to me for three months. Then I made up with him. Anybody would get upset...for a World Cup. Especially a player of Laxman's calibre. Quite natural that he would get upset," Ganguly told PTI while recalling the moment when Laxman was dropped in 2003 World Cup squad. Laxman who played 86 ODIs and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, was dropped for the 2003 ODI World Cup by the Indian selectors in favour of Dinesh Mongia. Kiran More, who was part of the selection panel during the 2003 World Cup also opened up on the selection call while in conversation with former Pakistan player Rashid Latif. “Before the 2003 ODI World Cup selection meeting, we had a huge argument when the Indian team was playing in New Zealand. As per the inputs received from the captain and the coach, we selected a 14-member squad and asked them what they thought of it. Over the conference call, Ganguly had a different opinion. We had selected VVS Laxman as our middle-order batter. Ganguly was very smart. He was a brilliant captain, a person with a great cricketing brain. He said ‘we need an all-rounder,” More had told on former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif’s YouTube channel. Also Check - From Shubman Gill to Rishabh Pant: 5 Indian batters with most centuries in WTC history Ganguly recently spoke about how sad Laxman was when he was dropped from the squad. The two didn’t speak for months, but they eventually patched things up after the World Cup. The former middle-order batter made a strong comeback to the ODI set-up smashing three tons in the tri-series in Australia in January-February 2004.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days.&nbsp;

Sourav Ganguly reveals VVS Laxman didn't speak to him for 3 months, was replaced by THIS player

Former batting veteran and NCA boss VVS Laxman will be Team India’s head coach for the four-match T20I series against South Africa starting November 4. With regular coach Gautam Gambhir flying with the Test squad to Australia for the marquee five-match series beginning in Perth on November 22, Laxman filled in for him the way he did for ex-coach Rahul Dravid several times during his tenure.

Laxman will bring in Sairaj Bahutule, Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Subhadeep Ghosh as part of the backroom staff for Proteas T20Is, to be played in Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion and Johannesburg on November 8, 10, 13 and 15 respectively.&nbsp;

Bahutule (head coach), Kanitkar (batting coach) and Ghosh (fielding coach) were part of the Emerging Asia Cup in Oman, where India got knocked out in the semis against eventual winners Afghanistan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-not-over-for-mohammed-shami-as-india-quick-may-link-up-with-squad-midway-into-australian-tour-reports-771247">All not over for Mohammed Shami as India quick may link up with squad midway into Australian tour – Reports</a>

Besides, Saurashtra’s Sitanshu Kotak and Kerela’s Mazhar Moidu, both associated with the NCA, are part of the India-A coaching staff, which is currently in Australia for the two unofficial Tests against Australia-A, with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the team.

Meanwhile, this series was never a part of FTP earlier and only got added after a closed-door meeting between the BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA).&nbsp;

The team will depart for the Rainbow Nation on November 4, while the BGT-bound squad will fly Down Under on November 10.

<h2>India’s squad for South Africa T20Is –</h2>

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal.

Gavaskar bashes needless scheduling

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar came down hard on the BCCI for arranging a short overseas series amid India’s premier domestic tournament, the Ranji Trophy, saying it was needless and that with close to 50-60 players occupied in different series, it is a blow to the league, which is not good for Indian cricket.

"Next month, there's a needless four-match T20 series in South Africa before the tour to Australia. There will also be an 'A' team touring Australia next month, so effectively about 50 to 60 players will not be available for their state teams in the premier national tournament, the Ranji Trophy," Gavaskar opined, writing for Sportstar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former batting veteran and NCA boss VVS Laxman will be Team India’s head coach for the four-match T20I series against South Africa starting November 4. With regular coach Gautam Gambhir flying with the Test squad to Australia for the marquee five-match series beginning in Perth on November 22, Laxman filled in for him the way he did for ex-coach Rahul Dravid several times during his tenure.

Former batting veteran and NCA boss VVS Laxman will be Team India’s head coach for the four-match T20I series against South Africa starting November 4. With regular coach Gautam Gambhir flying with the Test squad to Australia for the marquee five-match series beginning in Perth on November 22, Laxman filled in for him the way he did for ex-coach Rahul Dravid several times during his tenure. Laxman will bring in Sairaj Bahutule, Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Subhadeep Ghosh as part of the backroom staff for Proteas T20Is, to be played in Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion and Johannesburg on November 8, 10, 13 and 15 respectively. Bahutule (head coach), Kanitkar (batting coach) and Ghosh (fielding coach) were part of the Emerging Asia Cup in Oman, where India got knocked out in the semis against eventual winners Afghanistan. ALSO READ: All not over for Mohammed Shami as India quick may link up with squad midway into Australian tour – Reports Besides, Saurashtra’s Sitanshu Kotak and Kerela’s Mazhar Moidu, both associated with the NCA, are part of the India-A coaching staff, which is currently in Australia for the two unofficial Tests against Australia-A, with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the team. Meanwhile, this series was never a part of FTP earlier and only got added after a closed-door meeting between the BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA). The team will depart for the Rainbow Nation on November 4, while the BGT-bound squad will fly Down Under on November 10. India’s squad for South Africa T20Is – Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal. Gavaskar bashes needless scheduling Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar came down hard on the BCCI for arranging a short overseas series amid India’s premier domestic tournament, the Ranji Trophy, saying it was needless and that with close to 50-60 players occupied in different series, it is a blow to the league, which is not good for Indian cricket. "Next month, there's a needless four-match T20 series in South Africa before the tour to Australia. There will also be an 'A' team touring Australia next month, so effectively about 50 to 60 players will not be available for their state teams in the premier national tournament, the Ranji Trophy," Gavaskar opined, writing for Sportstar. (With inputs from agencies)

VVS Laxman named Team India’s head coach for South Africa T20Is

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to&nbsp;the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15). Laxman, who has been the head of the NCA and led the team in Rahul Dravid’s absence, will now get an extended term as the NCA moves to a new state-of-the-art facility. NCA will be opening a new facility in the coming days and Laxman will be the man to lead it as the Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) looks forward to the transition.

<h2>Laxman set to stay at NCA</h2>

The move to extend his contract comes after Laxman was approached by several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings were bidding to sign him as coach for the IPL 2025, but that would have meant Laxman would have to resign from his NCA post. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, the legendary batter will continue to head the Bengaluru-based facility and won’t join any IPL side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-jay-shah-says-no-to-iccs-offer-of-hosting-2024-womens-t20-world-cup-750372">BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup</a>

<h2>NCA set for major overhaul</h2>

“Very excited to announce that the @BCCI’s new National Cricket Academy (NCA) is almost complete and will be opening shortly in Bengaluru. The new NCA will feature three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, indoor cricket pitches, an Olympic-size swimming pool and state-of-the-art training, recovery and sports science facilities. This initiative will help our nation’s current and future cricketers develop their skills in the best possible environment!” Jay Shah wrote on&nbsp;X earlier in the month.

The plan is set to lift Indian cricket and provide world-class facilities for the upcoming generation of cricketers. The NCA serves as the centre of preparation for Indian players contracted to the BCCI but the latest developments will also see domestic players use the facilities.

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15).

Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), according to the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15). Laxman, who has been the head of the NCA and led the team in Rahul Dravid’s absence, will now get an extended term as the NCA moves to a new state-of-the-art facility. NCA will be opening a new facility in the coming days and Laxman will be the man to lead it as the Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) looks forward to the transition. Laxman set to stay at NCA The move to extend his contract comes after Laxman was approached by several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings were bidding to sign him as coach for the IPL 2025, but that would have meant Laxman would have to resign from his NCA post. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, the legendary batter will continue to head the Bengaluru-based facility and won’t join any IPL side. ALSO READ | BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup NCA set for major overhaul “Very excited to announce that the @BCCI’s new National Cricket Academy (NCA) is almost complete and will be opening shortly in Bengaluru. The new NCA will feature three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, indoor cricket pitches, an Olympic-size swimming pool and state-of-the-art training, recovery and sports science facilities. This initiative will help our nation’s current and future cricketers develop their skills in the best possible environment!” Jay Shah wrote on X earlier in the month. The plan is set to lift Indian cricket and provide world-class facilities for the upcoming generation of cricketers. The NCA serves as the centre of preparation for Indian players contracted to the BCCI but the latest developments will also see domestic players use the facilities.

VVS Laxman to get contract extension as head of National Cricket Academy

NCA head and interim India coach for the ongoing Zimbabwe T20Is, VVS Laxman, has shared a few words for the retired trio (from T20Is) – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja. Following India’s second T20 World Cup in Barbados in June against South Africa, the star trio announced their T20I retirements, clearing that they will continue playing in the IPL. Speaking on the same, Laxman congratulated the three players, lauding them for their contribution to Indian cricket in the shortest format.

"My message to these three stalwarts of the game -- Virat, Rohit and I consider Ravindra Jadeja also an extremely talented player who has contributed immensely to the development of the Indian cricket team. A big congratulations. Thank you for all the contribution they have given to the great game," Laxman said in a video posted by the BCCI on their social media handle ahead of the fourth T20I in Harare on Saturday (July 13).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-pens-heartfelt-note-for-englands-greatest-seamer-james-anderson-on-his-retirement-740264">Sachin Tendulkar pens heartfelt note for England’s greatest seamer James Anderson on his retirement</a>

Laxman said with their performances over the years, all three have inspired a whole generation growing up, adding they will continue to add value to the side in the remaining two formats – ODIs and Tests.

"They set an example for the youngsters to follow. The passion and the pride with which they played the game are exemplary. While they have retired from this format, I am sure that they will continue to prepare the way they did in their careers. A big congratulations for their excellent T20 career. I am sure they are going to continue to contribute in the longer version of the game,” Laxman continued.

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VVS Laxman reflects on that memorable day in Barbados ☺️ ☺️ - By <a href="https://twitter.com/ameyatilak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameyatilak</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Champions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Champions</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZIMvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZIMvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VVSLaxman281</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETZAxsgVj1">pic.twitter.com/ETZAxsgVj1</a>
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<h2>Stalwarts say goodbye to T20Is</h2>

The three mega stars of the Indian Team, irrespective of the format, have now let go of one.&nbsp;

Captain Rohit Sharma had a tremendous 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, ending up as the second-highest run-scorer, with his best (92) coming against Australia in a marquee Super 8 tie.

Although Jadeja had a slightly below-par 20-team tournament, stalwart Kohli shined on the D-day despite regular failures in the lead-up to the grand finale. Against the Proteas in the summit clash, Kohli scored a brilliant 76 runs to guide his team to a comfortable position.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Laxman is now in charge of the T20I series, consisting of youngsters, preparing them to replace the trio in India’s T20I squad.

India leads the five-match series 2-1.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NCA head and interim India coach for the ongoing Zimbabwe T20Is, VVS Laxman, has shared a few words for the retired trio (from T20Is) – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja.

NCA head and interim India coach for the ongoing Zimbabwe T20Is, VVS Laxman, has shared a few words for the retired trio (from T20Is) – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja. Following India’s second T20 World Cup in Barbados in June against South Africa, the star trio announced their T20I retirements, clearing that they will continue playing in the IPL. Speaking on the same, Laxman congratulated the three players, lauding them for their contribution to Indian cricket in the shortest format. "My message to these three stalwarts of the game -- Virat, Rohit and I consider Ravindra Jadeja also an extremely talented player who has contributed immensely to the development of the Indian cricket team. A big congratulations. Thank you for all the contribution they have given to the great game," Laxman said in a video posted by the BCCI on their social media handle ahead of the fourth T20I in Harare on Saturday (July 13). ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar pens heartfelt note for England’s greatest seamer James Anderson on his retirement Laxman said with their performances over the years, all three have inspired a whole generation growing up, adding they will continue to add value to the side in the remaining two formats – ODIs and Tests. "They set an example for the youngsters to follow. The passion and the pride with which they played the game are exemplary. While they have retired from this format, I am sure that they will continue to prepare the way they did in their careers. A big congratulations for their excellent T20 career. I am sure they are going to continue to contribute in the longer version of the game,” Laxman continued. WATCH VIDEO - How much the #T20WorldCup triumph 🏆 means to India? VVS Laxman reflects on that memorable day in Barbados ☺️ ☺️ - By @ameyatilak #TeamIndia | #Champions | #ZIMvIND | @VVSLaxman281 pic.twitter.com/ETZAxsgVj1 — BCCI (@BCCI) July 12, 2024 × Stalwarts say goodbye to T20Is The three mega stars of the Indian Team, irrespective of the format, have now let go of one. Captain Rohit Sharma had a tremendous 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, ending up as the second-highest run-scorer, with his best (92) coming against Australia in a marquee Super 8 tie. Although Jadeja had a slightly below-par 20-team tournament, stalwart Kohli shined on the D-day despite regular failures in the lead-up to the grand finale. Against the Proteas in the summit clash, Kohli scored a brilliant 76 runs to guide his team to a comfortable position. Meanwhile, Laxman is now in charge of the T20I series, consisting of youngsters, preparing them to replace the trio in India’s T20I squad. India leads the five-match series 2-1. (With inputs from agencies)

VVS Laxman has special message for retired T20I trio of Virat, Rohit and Jadeja

NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series. Per the latest reports, the BCCI will announce Gambhir’s appointment as India’s new head coach soon, with the two-time World Cup winner likely to bring his coaching staff alongside.

As the Men in Blue continue to grind in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI will make the squad announcement for the Zimbabwe series by the end of this week, mostly around 22 or 23.&nbsp;

The Indian Cricket Board is said to pick a different squad altogether, with all eyes on the youngsters who stood out in IPL 2024, including SunRisers opener Abhishek Sharma, Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag, RCB seamer Yash Dayal, alongside a few other names. The board might also give maiden India caps to Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-player-mohammed-hafeez-calls-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-selfish-733577">Ex-Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez calls Virat Kohli, KL Rahul 'selfish' yet again</a>

The report also suggests that BCCI’s ‘targeted list of cricketers’ is having a camp under Laxman at the NCA.&nbsp;

"There is a possibility that Laxman along with some of the NCA coaches will travel with the new look squad to Zimbabwe. Laxman and the NCA team has always filled up whenever Rahul Dravid and the first team coaches have been taking periodic breaks during their stint," a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The BCCI will pick seven to eight players from the T20 WC squad, including deputy T20I captain Hardik Pandya and star batter Suryakumar Yadav. Although Hardik is said to captain the Indian Team in Zimbabwe, in case he asks for rest, the board might give SKY the chance to captain India in the shortest format.&nbsp;

<h2>Gambhir’s announcement on the cards</h2>

Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India coach ends with the conclusion of the T20 WC, with Gautam taking over the realm.

Per the latest reports, Gambhir and WV Raman – the former Women’s Team coach, were interviewed by the BCCI, with the board going for the former India cricketer.

Meanwhile, Gambhir’s tenure begins with the away Sri Lanka series, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, and will last for three and half years till December 31, 2027.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series.

NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series. Per the latest reports, the BCCI will announce Gambhir’s appointment as India’s new head coach soon, with the two-time World Cup winner likely to bring his coaching staff alongside. As the Men in Blue continue to grind in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI will make the squad announcement for the Zimbabwe series by the end of this week, mostly around 22 or 23. The Indian Cricket Board is said to pick a different squad altogether, with all eyes on the youngsters who stood out in IPL 2024, including SunRisers opener Abhishek Sharma, Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag, RCB seamer Yash Dayal, alongside a few other names. The board might also give maiden India caps to Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. ALSO READ: Ex-Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez calls Virat Kohli, KL Rahul 'selfish' yet again The report also suggests that BCCI’s ‘targeted list of cricketers’ is having a camp under Laxman at the NCA. "There is a possibility that Laxman along with some of the NCA coaches will travel with the new look squad to Zimbabwe. Laxman and the NCA team has always filled up whenever Rahul Dravid and the first team coaches have been taking periodic breaks during their stint," a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity. The BCCI will pick seven to eight players from the T20 WC squad, including deputy T20I captain Hardik Pandya and star batter Suryakumar Yadav. Although Hardik is said to captain the Indian Team in Zimbabwe, in case he asks for rest, the board might give SKY the chance to captain India in the shortest format. Gambhir’s announcement on the cards Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India coach ends with the conclusion of the T20 WC, with Gautam taking over the realm. Per the latest reports, Gambhir and WV Raman – the former Women’s Team coach, were interviewed by the BCCI, with the board going for the former India cricketer. Meanwhile, Gambhir’s tenure begins with the away Sri Lanka series, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, and will last for three and half years till December 31, 2027. (With inputs from agencies)

VVS Laxman to travel with Team India for Zimbabwe tour; Gambhir’s tenure as new coach to begin soon - Reports

Former New Zealand cricketer and current Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach, Stephen Fleming remains the frontrunner to replace Rahul Dravid as the head coach for the men's senior cricket team.&nbsp;BCCI on Monday (May 13) opened the process to select the next head coach. The last date for the submission of the application is May 27 i.e. the day of the IPL final.

An Indian Express report claimed that BCCI officials have already held informal conversations with Fleming regarding&nbsp;the job during the IPL. However, the Kiwi is yet to make a decision about his future with CSK ready to extend his contract.&nbsp;

Fleming's credentials as the leading man for the job were enhanced after reports claimed that former Indian batter VVS Laxman had seemingly dropped out of the race for the job. The legendary middle-order batter, who is currently the head of the National Cricket Academy had been tipped to take over from Dravid last year when the latter's contract expired.

Dravid's&nbsp;extended contract as the head coach lapses after the T20 World Cup. With a Champions Trophy and another 50-over World Cup on the horizon, Laxman's refusal suggests that BCCI was gearing up for a foreign coach to take over the reins.&nbsp;

However, CSK have denied any such rumours and CEO Kasi Viswanathan said that there has been no such communication between Fleming and the franchise till now.&nbsp;

"I have not heard anything like this. There has been no communication from Stephen Fleming to CSK either," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Sports Now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-unlikely-to-reapply-for-indias-head-coach-position-reports-720881">Also read |&nbsp;Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports</a>

<h2>Long-term coach required</h2>

Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, has made it clear that there will be no split coaching duties - meaning any former player who takes up the job, will have to be on the road for 10 months a year.&nbsp;

"We are looking for a long-term coach for three years," Shah had said last week.

"There is no precedent of different coaches for different formats in Indian cricket. Besides, we have a number of all-format players. Ultimately, it will be the Cricket Advisory Committee's (CAC) call. I have to implement what they decide," he added.&nbsp;

A day after BCCI invited the applications,&nbsp;former Australian cricketer Justin Langer also threw&nbsp;his hat in the ring to replace Dravid.&nbsp;

“Well, I am curious. I’ve never ever thought about it. I have deep respect for any international coach because I understand the pressure, but coaching the Indian team would be an extraordinary role. From what I’ve seen with the amount of talent I’ve seen in this country, it would be fascinating,” Langer was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Times of India.

Langer is currently serving as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach, having previously coached Australia to T20 World Cup victory in 2021 while retaining the Ashes on two separate occasions viz.&nbsp;2019 and 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former New Zealand cricketer and current Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach, Stephen Fleming remains the frontrunner to replace Rahul Dravid as the head coach for the men's senior cricket team.

Former New Zealand cricketer and current Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach, Stephen Fleming remains the frontrunner to replace Rahul Dravid as the head coach for the men's senior cricket team. BCCI on Monday (May 13) opened the process to select the next head coach. The last date for the submission of the application is May 27 i.e. the day of the IPL final. An Indian Express report claimed that BCCI officials have already held informal conversations with Fleming regarding the job during the IPL. However, the Kiwi is yet to make a decision about his future with CSK ready to extend his contract. Fleming's credentials as the leading man for the job were enhanced after reports claimed that former Indian batter VVS Laxman had seemingly dropped out of the race for the job. The legendary middle-order batter, who is currently the head of the National Cricket Academy had been tipped to take over from Dravid last year when the latter's contract expired. Dravid's extended contract as the head coach lapses after the T20 World Cup. With a Champions Trophy and another 50-over World Cup on the horizon, Laxman's refusal suggests that BCCI was gearing up for a foreign coach to take over the reins. However, CSK have denied any such rumours and CEO Kasi Viswanathan said that there has been no such communication between Fleming and the franchise till now. "I have not heard anything like this. There has been no communication from Stephen Fleming to CSK either," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Sports Now. Also read | Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports Long-term coach required Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, has made it clear that there will be no split coaching duties - meaning any former player who takes up the job, will have to be on the road for 10 months a year. "We are looking for a long-term coach for three years," Shah had said last week. "There is no precedent of different coaches for different formats in Indian cricket. Besides, we have a number of all-format players. Ultimately, it will be the Cricket Advisory Committee's (CAC) call. I have to implement what they decide," he added. A day after BCCI invited the applications, former Australian cricketer Justin Langer also threw his hat in the ring to replace Dravid. “Well, I am curious. I’ve never ever thought about it. I have deep respect for any international coach because I understand the pressure, but coaching the Indian team would be an extraordinary role. From what I’ve seen with the amount of talent I’ve seen in this country, it would be fascinating,” Langer was quoted as saying by Times of India. Langer is currently serving as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach, having previously coached Australia to T20 World Cup victory in 2021 while retaining the Ashes on two separate occasions viz. 2019 and 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Stephen Fleming remains frontrunner for Indian men's cricket team head coach job

Current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has not reapplied for the top position following his tenure conclusion after the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA.

Current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has not reapplied for the top position following his tenure conclusion after the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA. The top contender for the job, VVS Laxman, has reportedly denied taking up the opportunity. Laxman has been serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) head for three years now, and upon contacting him to replace Dravid as the men’s team head coach, the veteran batter sounded ‘uninterested’. Per the latest report, Laxman was discussed as the possible contender to replace Dravid, but he refused to accept the offer for reasons known to him. BCCI released the job application on their social media handles, with the deadline being May 27. Though several top players in the team have urged Dravid to reconsider, the Indian veteran denied it, saying he wishes to spend more time with his family following the end of his contract tenure. ALSO READ: 'You won't see me...': Ahead of crucial CSK tie, Virat Kohli drops retirement bomb The incoming coach will hold the position for three and a half years The Indian Cricket Board seeking overseas options for Dravid’s replacement. Per several media reports, Chennai Super Kings head coach and former New Zealand Captain Stephen Fleming is considered the top choice. Though the BCCI hasn’t released the names of applicants yet, Fleming’s name is doing the rounds on the internet. As successful as his resume is, Fleming’s appointment could boost India’s chances of breaking the ICC trophy deadlock. Dravid’s tenure as Team India's head coach Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as Team India's head coach in 2021, guiding them to the semis of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, the final of the second World Test Championship (WTC) edition and final of the home World Cup last year. But India fell shy of achieving their goal in all those contests. Under Dravid, India won the home Test series against Australia and England, while winning the Asia Cup last year was the highlight of his tenure. With the 20-team tournament being his last assignment, hopes are pinned on him to lead India to its maiden ICC trophy for the first time since 2013. Here is Team India’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup – Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohd. Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

Top contender for Team India’s head coach position denies offer as BCCI seek overseas options – Reports

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach&nbsp;Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India.&nbsp;

The decision was taken at BCCI's Apex Council meeting on Monday (Mar 18) where concerns were raised about the challenges domestic cricket was facing in the country.

"There were a lot of issues that cropped up during the conduct of men’s domestic cricket, with a prominent problem being that a lot of games in north India, particularly during the Ranji Trophy, were washed out or heavily curtailed due to bad weather in December-January," a source was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

"Dravid, Laxman and Agarkar have been asked to give their suggestions to improve men’s domestic cricket," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Focus on domestic cricket</h2>

Notably, in recent months, BCCI has given additional focus on strengthening the domestic cricket setup in the country. The senior national team players have been advised to go back to the Ranji Trophy or other domestic tournaments when they are not playing for the country.&nbsp;

The likes of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer missed out on central contracts after they allegedly refused to play domestic cricket.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain and 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar recently lauded the BCCI for announcing the incentive scheme for players playing 75 per cent of India's Tests both home and away.&nbsp;

Gavaskar added that a similar incentive scheme could be launched for domestic cricket which would automatically increase the participation and quality.&nbsp;

“That is a wonderful thing by the BCCI to reward those who would be playing but I would also request the BCCI to ensure that the feeder to the Test team, which is the Ranji Trophy, that is also looked after," said Gavaskar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-urges-bcci-to-implement-incentive-scheme-in-ranji-trophy-to-motivate-players-700886">Also read |&nbsp;Sunil Gavaskar urges BCCI to implement ‘incentive scheme’ in Ranji Trophy to motivate players&nbsp;</a>

“(If) the Ranji Trophy fees can be doubled or tripled, certainly there’ll be a lot more people playing the Ranji Trophy, (and a) lot less pull outs from the Ranji Trophy, because if the fees of playing a Ranji Trophy match is a good fee there will be less people pulling out for various reasons," he added.&nbsp;

The former top-order batter also urged BCCI to look into the growing concern of the short gap between Ranji games and even suggested Ranji to be the first of three tournaments to be played and not the last to ensure everyone is available and no one opts to skip it.

(With inputs from agencies)

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India.

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India. The decision was taken at BCCI's Apex Council meeting on Monday (Mar 18) where concerns were raised about the challenges domestic cricket was facing in the country. "There were a lot of issues that cropped up during the conduct of men’s domestic cricket, with a prominent problem being that a lot of games in north India, particularly during the Ranji Trophy, were washed out or heavily curtailed due to bad weather in December-January," a source was quoted as saying by the publication. "Dravid, Laxman and Agarkar have been asked to give their suggestions to improve men’s domestic cricket," it added. Focus on domestic cricket Notably, in recent months, BCCI has given additional focus on strengthening the domestic cricket setup in the country. The senior national team players have been advised to go back to the Ranji Trophy or other domestic tournaments when they are not playing for the country. The likes of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer missed out on central contracts after they allegedly refused to play domestic cricket. Former Indian captain and 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar recently lauded the BCCI for announcing the incentive scheme for players playing 75 per cent of India's Tests both home and away. Gavaskar added that a similar incentive scheme could be launched for domestic cricket which would automatically increase the participation and quality. “That is a wonderful thing by the BCCI to reward those who would be playing but I would also request the BCCI to ensure that the feeder to the Test team, which is the Ranji Trophy, that is also looked after," said Gavaskar. Also read | Sunil Gavaskar urges BCCI to implement ‘incentive scheme’ in Ranji Trophy to motivate players “(If) the Ranji Trophy fees can be doubled or tripled, certainly there’ll be a lot more people playing the Ranji Trophy, (and a) lot less pull outs from the Ranji Trophy, because if the fees of playing a Ranji Trophy match is a good fee there will be less people pulling out for various reasons," he added. The former top-order batter also urged BCCI to look into the growing concern of the short gap between Ranji games and even suggested Ranji to be the first of three tournaments to be played and not the last to ensure everyone is available and no one opts to skip it. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI forms three-member committee of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Ajit Agarkar to improve domestic cricket

Rahul Dravid's two-year contract as Team India's head coach came to an end with India's ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Dravid was given the top job after Ravi Shastri's exit in late 2021. The former Indian captain's contract was set to get over with the ODI WC campaign, at home, and The Wall is unwilling to extend his contract.

As per a report in TOI, multiple sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed that Dravid is not interested in extending his contract any further and, hence, his close friend VVS Laxman is likely to succeed him as India's head coach. Laxman, who is the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is currently acting as the head coach for India's five T20Is versus Australia at home. He has donned the role on a few occasions as well, when a second-stringed India toured Zimbabwe,&nbsp;Ireland and New Zealand as well as hosted South Africa during Dravid's tenure.

A reliable source in the BCCI told TOI, "Laxman has expressed his keenness for the job. During the World Cup, Laxman travelled to Ahmedabad to meet the BCCI's top bosses in this regard. He's likely to sign a long-time contract as the Team India coach, and will certainly travel with the team in that capacity for the upcoming tour of South Africa, which will be his first as the full-time India head coach."

Also read: I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-1st-t20i-completely-different-rohit-sharma-walked-the-talk-during-home-odi-wc-suryakumar-661760">nd vs Aus, 1st T20I: 'Completely different' Rohit Sharma walked the talk during home ODI WC - Suryakumar</a>

The source further revealed, "Dravid has communicated to the BCCI that he isn't keen to continue as a full-time coach. For close to 20 years, he has travelled with the Indian team as a player, and for the past couple of years, he again went through the same grind, which he doesn't want to undergo. He's fine with a role at the NCA as the head there (a role he previously served in), which will allow him to stay back in his hometown Bengaluru. Like earlier, he's fine with coaching the team sporadically, but not again as a full-time coach."

Another source informed&nbsp;that Dravid is&nbsp;already in talks with an IPL team for a two-year contract.&nbsp;"He's in talks with an IPL team for a big two-year contract," the source shared.

With Dravid set to go, Laxman might continue with the former's support staff --&nbsp;batting coach&nbsp;Vikram Rathour, bowling coach&nbsp;Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach T Dilip -- or bring in his own set of people in the mix.&nbsp;

"They might continue, or Laxman, like any other coach, might want to bring his own set of people in the support staff," the source added.&nbsp;

Hence, an official announcement is awaited with regard to India's head coach position. Under Dravid, India won the Asia Cup (ODIs), reached the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-finals, and ended as runners-up in the WTC Final and ODI WC at home. India continued to remain dominant at home across formats -- only losing an ODI series to Australia -- but lost a Test series in South Africa, a one-off Test in England, a T20I series versus West Indies in West Indies and the USA and fell flat in the 2022&nbsp;Asia Cup (T20Is).

Rahul Dravid's two-year contract as Team India's head coach came to an end with India's ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Dravid was given the top job after Ravi Shastri's exit in late 2021.

Rahul Dravid's two-year contract as Team India's head coach came to an end with India's ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Dravid was given the top job after Ravi Shastri's exit in late 2021. The former Indian captain's contract was set to get over with the ODI WC campaign, at home, and The Wall is unwilling to extend his contract. As per a report in TOI, multiple sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed that Dravid is not interested in extending his contract any further and, hence, his close friend VVS Laxman is likely to succeed him as India's head coach. Laxman, who is the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is currently acting as the head coach for India's five T20Is versus Australia at home. He has donned the role on a few occasions as well, when a second-stringed India toured Zimbabwe, Ireland and New Zealand as well as hosted South Africa during Dravid's tenure. A reliable source in the BCCI told TOI, "Laxman has expressed his keenness for the job. During the World Cup, Laxman travelled to Ahmedabad to meet the BCCI's top bosses in this regard. He's likely to sign a long-time contract as the Team India coach, and will certainly travel with the team in that capacity for the upcoming tour of South Africa, which will be his first as the full-time India head coach." Also read: Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: 'Completely different' Rohit Sharma walked the talk during home ODI WC - Suryakumar The source further revealed, "Dravid has communicated to the BCCI that he isn't keen to continue as a full-time coach. For close to 20 years, he has travelled with the Indian team as a player, and for the past couple of years, he again went through the same grind, which he doesn't want to undergo. He's fine with a role at the NCA as the head there (a role he previously served in), which will allow him to stay back in his hometown Bengaluru. Like earlier, he's fine with coaching the team sporadically, but not again as a full-time coach." Another source informed that Dravid is already in talks with an IPL team for a two-year contract. "He's in talks with an IPL team for a big two-year contract," the source shared. With Dravid set to go, Laxman might continue with the former's support staff -- batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach T Dilip -- or bring in his own set of people in the mix. "They might continue, or Laxman, like any other coach, might want to bring his own set of people in the support staff," the source added. Hence, an official announcement is awaited with regard to India's head coach position. Under Dravid, India won the Asia Cup (ODIs), reached the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-finals, and ended as runners-up in the WTC Final and ODI WC at home. India continued to remain dominant at home across formats -- only losing an ODI series to Australia -- but lost a Test series in South Africa, a one-off Test in England, a T20I series versus West Indies in West Indies and the USA and fell flat in the 2022 Asia Cup (T20Is).

VVS Laxman set to succeed Rahul Dravid as India's head coach after latter unwilling to extend contract: Report

The World Cup 2023 might end on November 19, but cricket won’t. Four days after the CWC final in Ahmedabad, India and Australia will lock horns in the five-match T20Is, starting November 23 in Vizag.

Per the latest reports, the selection committee will rest the seniors and the head coach, Rahul Dravid, for this series. In his absence, Dravid’s former teammate and friend, VVS Laxman – the NCA head, will coach the new-look Indian Team.

Every time Dravid is granted rest, Laxman has filled in his shoes. The last time Laxman coached an Indian Team was during the Asian Games 2023 campaign, where they won the gold medal. Before that, Laxman was in charge during the Ireland T20Is, which marked the return of Jasprit Bumrah.

“VVS Laxman has always been in charge when Rahul has taken a break, and the same thing is likely to continue for the series just after the World Cup,” a PTI news agency report quoted a BCCI source as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-ashton-agar-likely-to-miss-india-t20i-series-due-to-recurrence-of-calf-injury-652015">Australia's Ashton Agar likely to miss India T20I series due to recurrence of calf injury</a>

Although the selection committee is yet to sit to pick the squad for the home five-match T20Is vs Australia, the reports suggest regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will be rested. Stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya, who is out with an ankle niggle, could also be rested.

In Pandya’s absence, India’s highest-ranked T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team, including several emerging faces. The Indian Team will comprise mostly of the Asian Games&nbsp;gold medal squad, with keeper-batter Sanju Samson likely to get picked.

<h2>Sanju, Malik to return</h2>

Alongside Sanju, openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and seamer Umran Malik could return to the squad. Per reports, Rinku Singh, who debuted during the Ireland T20Is, could be overlooked.

Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee will keep a keen eye on players during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.&nbsp;

“There is time. Some of the guys will get a break after the World Cup. And yes, it will be an opportunity for someone like Ruturaj, Yashasvi, or Sanju to do well and cement their place. It’s up to the selectors, who they want to see in that team,” a senior BCCI official told InsideSport.

<h3>Here is the schedule of India vs Australia 2023 T20I series –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st T20I – November 23, Vizag</li>
	<li>2nd T20I – November 26, Trivandrum</li>
	<li>3rd T20I – November 28, Guwahati</li>
	<li>4th T20I – December 1, Nagpur</li>
	<li>5th T20I – December 3, Hyderabad</li>
</ul>

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The World Cup 2023 might end on November 19, but cricket won’t. Four days after the CWC final in Ahmedabad, India and Australia will lock horns in the five-match T20Is, starting November 23 in Vizag.

The World Cup 2023 might end on November 19, but cricket won’t. Four days after the CWC final in Ahmedabad, India and Australia will lock horns in the five-match T20Is, starting November 23 in Vizag. Per the latest reports, the selection committee will rest the seniors and the head coach, Rahul Dravid, for this series. In his absence, Dravid’s former teammate and friend, VVS Laxman – the NCA head, will coach the new-look Indian Team. Every time Dravid is granted rest, Laxman has filled in his shoes. The last time Laxman coached an Indian Team was during the Asian Games 2023 campaign, where they won the gold medal. Before that, Laxman was in charge during the Ireland T20Is, which marked the return of Jasprit Bumrah. “VVS Laxman has always been in charge when Rahul has taken a break, and the same thing is likely to continue for the series just after the World Cup,” a PTI news agency report quoted a BCCI source as saying. ALSO READ: Australia's Ashton Agar likely to miss India T20I series due to recurrence of calf injury Although the selection committee is yet to sit to pick the squad for the home five-match T20Is vs Australia, the reports suggest regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will be rested. Stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya, who is out with an ankle niggle, could also be rested. In Pandya’s absence, India’s highest-ranked T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team, including several emerging faces. The Indian Team will comprise mostly of the Asian Games gold medal squad, with keeper-batter Sanju Samson likely to get picked. Sanju, Malik to return Alongside Sanju, openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and seamer Umran Malik could return to the squad. Per reports, Rinku Singh, who debuted during the Ireland T20Is, could be overlooked. Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee will keep a keen eye on players during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. “There is time. Some of the guys will get a break after the World Cup. And yes, it will be an opportunity for someone like Ruturaj, Yashasvi, or Sanju to do well and cement their place. It’s up to the selectors, who they want to see in that team,” a senior BCCI official told InsideSport. Here is the schedule of India vs Australia 2023 T20I series – 1st T20I – November 23, Vizag 2nd T20I – November 26, Trivandrum 3rd T20I – November 28, Guwahati 4th T20I – December 1, Nagpur 5th T20I – December 3, Hyderabad WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dravid, seniors to be rested for Australia T20Is; VVS Laxman to coach, Suryakumar Yadav to lead - Reports

Former Indian cricketers VVS Laxman and Hrishikesh Kanitkar have been roped in as head coaches for India’s men’s and women’s cricket teams, respectively, for the Asian Games 2023, to be held in Hangzhou, China. While Sairaj Bahutule will travel as the bowling coach and Minush Bali as the fielding coach for the men’s team, Rajib Dutta and Subhadeep Ghosh are appointed as the bowling and fielding coach, respectively, for the women’s team.

As per the latest schedule, both teams will enter the competition at the quarterfinal stage. The men’s team will begin their campaign on October 3, and if they win the contest, they will play the semis on October 5. The final will take place on October 7.

On the other hand, the action for the women’s team will get underway on September 21, while the semis clash is scheduled for September 23 and the final on September 25.

Zhejiang University of Technology's (ZJUT) Pingfeng campus cricket ground will stage all matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-indias-chances-of-qualifying-for-final-look-bleak-as-rain-to-play-spoilsport-in-sri-lanka-tie-634867">Asia Cup: India's chances of qualifying for final look bleak as rain to play spoilsport in Sri Lanka tie</a>

Laxman, the head at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, had earlier stepped in to fill the vacant head coach’s role when Rahul Dravid was rested for a particular series, with the most recent example being India’s three-match T20Is against Ireland in August.&nbsp;

Besides Laxman, Kanitkar was appointed the head coach of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the home T20I series against Australia in December last year. He coached the side during the tri-series in South Africa and the T20 Women’s World Cup that followed.

Meanwhile, the Indian Women’s Team has been without a head coach since December last year, when Romesh Powar was moved to the NCA.&nbsp;

<h2>Squads for Asian Games –&nbsp;</h2>

Indian Men’s Team Squad for the Asian Games 2023 –

Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam Dube, Prabhsimran Singh (wk)

Standby players: Yash Thakur, R Sai Kishore, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, B Sai Sudharsan

Indian Women’s Team for the Asian Games 2023 -

Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wicket-keeper), Amanjot Kaur, Devika Vaidya, Anjali Sarvani, Titas Sadhu, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Minnu Mani, Kanika Ahuja, Uma Chetry (wicket-keeper), Anusha Bareddy

Standby players: Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque, Pooja Vastrakar

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Former Indian cricketers VVS Laxman and Hrishikesh Kanitkar have been roped in as head coaches for India’s men’s and women’s cricket teams, respectively, for the Asian Games 2023, to be held in Hangzhou, China.

Former Indian cricketers VVS Laxman and Hrishikesh Kanitkar have been roped in as head coaches for India’s men’s and women’s cricket teams, respectively, for the Asian Games 2023, to be held in Hangzhou, China. While Sairaj Bahutule will travel as the bowling coach and Minush Bali as the fielding coach for the men’s team, Rajib Dutta and Subhadeep Ghosh are appointed as the bowling and fielding coach, respectively, for the women’s team. As per the latest schedule, both teams will enter the competition at the quarterfinal stage. The men’s team will begin their campaign on October 3, and if they win the contest, they will play the semis on October 5. The final will take place on October 7. On the other hand, the action for the women’s team will get underway on September 21, while the semis clash is scheduled for September 23 and the final on September 25. Zhejiang University of Technology's (ZJUT) Pingfeng campus cricket ground will stage all matches. ALSO READ: Asia Cup: India's chances of qualifying for final look bleak as rain to play spoilsport in Sri Lanka tie Laxman, the head at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, had earlier stepped in to fill the vacant head coach’s role when Rahul Dravid was rested for a particular series, with the most recent example being India’s three-match T20Is against Ireland in August. Besides Laxman, Kanitkar was appointed the head coach of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the home T20I series against Australia in December last year. He coached the side during the tri-series in South Africa and the T20 Women’s World Cup that followed. Meanwhile, the Indian Women’s Team has been without a head coach since December last year, when Romesh Powar was moved to the NCA. Squads for Asian Games – Indian Men’s Team Squad for the Asian Games 2023 – Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam Dube, Prabhsimran Singh (wk) Standby players: Yash Thakur, R Sai Kishore, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, B Sai Sudharsan Indian Women’s Team for the Asian Games 2023 - Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wicket-keeper), Amanjot Kaur, Devika Vaidya, Anjali Sarvani, Titas Sadhu, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Minnu Mani, Kanika Ahuja, Uma Chetry (wicket-keeper), Anusha Bareddy Standby players: Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque, Pooja Vastrakar WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

VVS Laxman, Hrishikesh Kanitkar named coaches for Men’s and Women’s teams at Asian Games 2023

The India cricket team under Jasprit Bumrah is set to be without VVS Laxman for the upcoming Ireland tour as the preparations get ready for the final stage. The latest report on Friday, August 11 confirmed the plans of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), this despite the absence of the first-team coaching staff of Rahul Dravid, who has been rested for the tour. The Indian team will play a three-match T20I series against the Green Army before the commitments for the Asia Cup begin.

<h2>No Laxman for the Ireland tour?</h2>

According to a report by Cricbuzz, India have opted not to include the National Cricket Academy (NCA) chairman Laxman, who was also with the national side when they faced Ireland in 2022. The BCCI expected the former batter to accompany the team for the series, but have now opted to change the plans. As things stand, Sitanshu Kotak and Sairaj Bahutule will be part of the support staff that will travel to Ireland.

Dravid and other first-team coaching staff including Paras Mhambrey will take a break before they join the national side for the Asia Cup which is scheduled to start at the end of the month in Sri Lanka for India. The coaching staff will leave for India immediately after the current leg of the West Indies tour is over. The entire team is in the US for the final two T20Is against West Indies where India trail by 1-2.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-give-players-like-suryakumar-yadav-cushion-of-extra-games-ahead-of-world-cup-rohit-sharma-624455">You have to give players like Suryakumar Yadav cushion of extra games ahead of World Cup: Rohit Sharma</a>

Players part of both the West Indies and Ireland series will directly leave from Miami to Dublin while other lot consisting of stand-in skipper Bumrah will travel from Mumbai. The Bumrah-led camp is expected to leave on Tuesday, August 15 before they start training for the series.

The management on the other hand has a different headache in the form of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s fitness concern. The duo is expected to be fit for the ODI World Cup but are facing a race against time for the Asia Cup 2023. The BCCI is awaiting the fitness report of the duo before they take any decision on India’s final squad for the Asia Cup.

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The India cricket team under Jasprit Bumrah is set to be without VVS Laxman for the upcoming Ireland tour as the preparations get ready for the final stage. The latest report on Friday, August 11 confirmed the plans of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), this despite the absence of the first-team coaching staff of Rahul Dravid, who has been rested for the tour.

The India cricket team under Jasprit Bumrah is set to be without VVS Laxman for the upcoming Ireland tour as the preparations get ready for the final stage. The latest report on Friday, August 11 confirmed the plans of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), this despite the absence of the first-team coaching staff of Rahul Dravid, who has been rested for the tour. The Indian team will play a three-match T20I series against the Green Army before the commitments for the Asia Cup begin. No Laxman for the Ireland tour? According to a report by Cricbuzz, India have opted not to include the National Cricket Academy (NCA) chairman Laxman, who was also with the national side when they faced Ireland in 2022. The BCCI expected the former batter to accompany the team for the series, but have now opted to change the plans. As things stand, Sitanshu Kotak and Sairaj Bahutule will be part of the support staff that will travel to Ireland. Dravid and other first-team coaching staff including Paras Mhambrey will take a break before they join the national side for the Asia Cup which is scheduled to start at the end of the month in Sri Lanka for India. The coaching staff will leave for India immediately after the current leg of the West Indies tour is over. The entire team is in the US for the final two T20Is against West Indies where India trail by 1-2. ALSO READ | You have to give players like Suryakumar Yadav cushion of extra games ahead of World Cup: Rohit Sharma Players part of both the West Indies and Ireland series will directly leave from Miami to Dublin while other lot consisting of stand-in skipper Bumrah will travel from Mumbai. The Bumrah-led camp is expected to leave on Tuesday, August 15 before they start training for the series. The management on the other hand has a different headache in the form of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s fitness concern. The duo is expected to be fit for the ODI World Cup but are facing a race against time for the Asia Cup 2023. The BCCI is awaiting the fitness report of the duo before they take any decision on India’s final squad for the Asia Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs IRE: Jasprit Bumrah-led side set to be without VVS Laxman despite absence of first-team coaching staff

Rahul Dravid-led coaching panel will get the much-required rest during the three-match Ireland T20Is, which starts on August 18 in Dublin. Along with Dravid, batting coach Vikram Rathour&nbsp;and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, who are currently in the Caribbean for the long tour that ends with the final two T20Is in the USA,&nbsp;will head home to rest and prepare for the Asia Cup that gets underway on August 31. In their absence, NCA head, VVS Laxman-led team will coach the Men in Blue in Ireland.

Looking at the packed calendar ahead, with the multi-team tournament in Asia Cup, the white-ball series against Australia and the home World Cup that begins on October 5, BCCI opting for the rotational policy with coaches&nbsp;makes sense.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-during-2023-asia-cup-seamer-jasprit-bumrah-could-return-sooner-than-expected-reports-616213">Not during 2023 Asia Cup, seamer Jasprit Bumrah could return sooner than expected - Reports</a>

Interestingly, during last year's Ireland series also, VVS Laxman led the Indian Team as the board decided to rest Dravid &amp; Co.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other than Laxman, two other members, each from the batting (either Sitanshu Kotak or Hrishikesh Kanitkar) and bowling (either Troy Cooley or Sairaj Bahutule) departments, will travel to Ireland for the three-match T20Is.

<h2>Chief selector Ajit Agarkar to join Team India in WI soon</h2>

The newly-appointed chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, is reported to be joining the squad in West Indies ahead of the second Test that starts on Wednesday, July 19, in Port of Spain, while Salil Ankola - a member of the selection committee, is already travelling with the team.

Ajit's purpose in travelling to the Caribbean Islands is to sit with captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid and talk about potential selections for the Ireland series and the Asia Cup that follows.&nbsp;

Though no official word is out on how India's T20I Team in Ireland will look, earlier reports suggested all-rounder Hardik Pandya will continue to lead. Seniors, including Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, are again likely to get rested.&nbsp;

The big news, however, was the potential return of Jasprit Bumrah for the Ireland series. Bumrah, currently training at the NCA in Bengaluru, is said to be sending down good eight to ten overs regularly and is nearing complete fitness.&nbsp;

The same cannot be said about batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. While Iyer has resumed batting at the NCA, nothing has been said about Rahul's return to the side.

Meanwhile, as things stand, India is leading the two-match Test series against West Indies 1-0 after winning the first Test by a whopping margin of an innings and 141 runs.

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Rahul Dravid-led coaching panel will get the much-required rest during the three-match Ireland T20Is, which starts on August 18 in Dublin. Along with Dravid, batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, who are currently in the Caribbean for the long tour that ends with the final two T20Is in the USA, will head home to rest and prepare for the Asia Cup that gets underway on August 31.

Rahul Dravid-led coaching panel will get the much-required rest during the three-match Ireland T20Is, which starts on August 18 in Dublin. Along with Dravid, batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, who are currently in the Caribbean for the long tour that ends with the final two T20Is in the USA, will head home to rest and prepare for the Asia Cup that gets underway on August 31. In their absence, NCA head, VVS Laxman-led team will coach the Men in Blue in Ireland. Looking at the packed calendar ahead, with the multi-team tournament in Asia Cup, the white-ball series against Australia and the home World Cup that begins on October 5, BCCI opting for the rotational policy with coaches makes sense. ALSO READ: Not during 2023 Asia Cup, seamer Jasprit Bumrah could return sooner than expected - Reports Interestingly, during last year's Ireland series also, VVS Laxman led the Indian Team as the board decided to rest Dravid & Co. Meanwhile, other than Laxman, two other members, each from the batting (either Sitanshu Kotak or Hrishikesh Kanitkar) and bowling (either Troy Cooley or Sairaj Bahutule) departments, will travel to Ireland for the three-match T20Is. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar to join Team India in WI soon The newly-appointed chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, is reported to be joining the squad in West Indies ahead of the second Test that starts on Wednesday, July 19, in Port of Spain, while Salil Ankola - a member of the selection committee, is already travelling with the team. Ajit's purpose in travelling to the Caribbean Islands is to sit with captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid and talk about potential selections for the Ireland series and the Asia Cup that follows. Though no official word is out on how India's T20I Team in Ireland will look, earlier reports suggested all-rounder Hardik Pandya will continue to lead. Seniors, including Rohit, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, are again likely to get rested. The big news, however, was the potential return of Jasprit Bumrah for the Ireland series. Bumrah, currently training at the NCA in Bengaluru, is said to be sending down good eight to ten overs regularly and is nearing complete fitness. The same cannot be said about batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. While Iyer has resumed batting at the NCA, nothing has been said about Rahul's return to the side. Meanwhile, as things stand, India is leading the two-match Test series against West Indies 1-0 after winning the first Test by a whopping margin of an innings and 141 runs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff to be rested for Ireland series; NCA head VVS Laxman likely to fill shoes

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