BCCI Informally Approached Laxman for Test Head Coach Role after Whitewash vs SA: Report
The Indian cricket team’s recent performance in South Africa has left a lot to be desired. The team was whitewashed 2-0 in the Test series, raising questions about the coaching staff and the team’s overall strategy. In the aftermath of this disappointing performance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informally approached VVS Laxman to gauge his interest in taking over as the head coach of the Indian Test team, according to a report by PTI.
Laxman, a former Indian cricketer and one of the greatest batsmen the country has produced, is currently the ‘Head of Cricket’ at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The report suggests that a BCCI official had an informal conversation with Laxman to check if he would be interested in coaching the Indian Test team. However, Laxman is said to have expressed his happiness with his current role at the NCA and does not seem keen on taking up the coaching position.
This development comes at a time when the Indian team is struggling to find its footing in the Test format. The team’s performance in South Africa was lackluster, to say the least, and the coaching staff has come under scrutiny. The current head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has a contract that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup, but the BCCI seems to be exploring other options for the Test team.
The approach to Laxman is not surprising, given his experience and expertise in the game. A veteran of 134 Test matches, Laxman has a deep understanding of the game and has been involved in cricket administration and coaching for several years. His experience as a player and a coach would make him an ideal candidate for the role of head coach.
However, Laxman’s reluctance to take up the position is understandable. As the ‘Head of Cricket’ at the NCA, he is responsible for overseeing the development of young cricketers and shaping the future of Indian cricket. This is a crucial role, and Laxman may feel that he can make a more significant impact in this position than as the head coach of the Test team.
The BCCI’s approach to Laxman also raises questions about the future of Gambhir as the head coach. While his contract runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup, the BCCI may be looking to make changes to the coaching staff in the wake of the team’s poor performance. Gambhir has been under pressure to deliver results, and the approach to Laxman may be a sign that the BCCI is exploring other options.
The Indian cricket team’s performance in South Africa has highlighted the need for a fresh approach and new ideas. The team’s batting and bowling have been inconsistent, and the coaching staff has been criticized for its tactics and strategy. The BCCI’s approach to Laxman may be a sign that the board is willing to think outside the box and explore new options to turn the team’s fortunes around.
In conclusion, the BCCI’s informal approach to VVS Laxman for the Test head coach role is a significant development in Indian cricket. While Laxman’s reluctance to take up the position is understandable, the BCCI’s willingness to explore new options is a sign that the board is committed to improving the team’s performance. As the Indian cricket team looks to bounce back from its disappointing performance in South Africa, the BCCI’s approach to Laxman may be the first step towards a new era in Indian cricket.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/171ce424-2ac3-4ea7-889d-622f827f6853