VVS Laxman's hesitance to take on the role of head coach for the Indian team is widely known. With his tenure as the 'Head of Cricket' at the NCA concluding in September, there's curiosity about how the
BCCI
plans to retain him within the system.
Although Gautam Gambhir, mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders, is rumored to be the frontrunner, it's uncertain whether BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has consulted the senior players regarding Gambhir's suitability.
In a recent statement, Shah clarified that the BCCI is inclined towards an Indian coach with a deep understanding of the cricketing landscape, hinting at the preference for someone who has risen through the ranks.
Laxman appears to be a natural candidate, having served as an interim coach during his tenure at the NCA. However, he hasn't yet applied for the position, which demands significant physical and mental endurance for the next three and a half years.
If Laxman decides to throw his hat into the ring, he would stand on firm ground, given his respected role within the BCCI's High Performance Centre, overseeing the country's pathway cricket programs.
The BCCI is keen on retaining the 49-year-old and may attempt to persuade him to take up the top coaching position.
"It will be completely up to Jay but he has to convince VVS to be a part of the Indian set-up, at least when they play red-ball series,"a former BCCI office-bearer told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
"If he is not willing to work full-time, he can always be the consultant when India play marquee red-ball series in Australia this year and England next year."
After his tenure at the NCA concludes, Laxman shouldn't find it challenging to return to the IPL scene, as he has received a standing offer from at least one franchise. Additionally, he has solidified his position as a commentator and analyst in the cricketing world.
"Unlike Rahul (Dravid), who was based out of Bengaluru, Laxman had to shift base from Hyderabad. Not to forget his magnanimity when he agreed to work for a lesser pay package compared to what he was making as mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad and as an expert with one of the broadcasters.
"So there will be factors but Laxman's services should be utilised properly," the former office-bearer said.
In a recent media interaction in Mumbai, Shah emphasized that there will only be one head coach for the national team. However, some believe that Laxman's expertise in red-ball cricket could be utilized exclusively for that format.
By next year, the NCA is set to relocate to its dedicated facility on the outskirts of Bengaluru, boasting multiple full-sized cricket grounds, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, swimming pool and residential complex.
Once Laxman departs from the NCA, the BCCI will need a strong candidate to fill the role of Head of Cricket. One potential candidate is the current national team batting coach, Vikram Rathour.
Rathour has served as a batting coach at the NCA and was a national selector for four years. Over the past five years, he has been an integral part of the national team, with his tenure set to conclude after the T20 World Cup next month.
His deep understanding of cricketing techniques is widely respected, leading many to believe that he is the ideal candidate to succeed Laxman when the time comes.
(With PTI inputs)
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