Is VVS Laxman Set To Take Over India’s Test Coach Role? BCCI Responds

Speculation around a possible change in India’s Test coaching setup has been firmly put to rest after senior officials clarified that no discussions are underway regarding a leadership overhaul. Recent reports linking former batting great VVS Laxman to the role of India’s Test head coach have been described as inaccurate. The clarification comes at a time when India’s red-ball performances have come under scrutiny following a difficult home season and setbacks in the World Test Championship race.

BCCI Rejects Reports Of Coaching Change

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has categorically denied claims suggesting that VVS Laxman has been approached to replace Gautam Gambhir as India’s Test head coach. According to officials, the reports circulating in the media are speculative and do not reflect the board’s current position. It was stated that no steps have been taken to alter the existing leadership structure for the longest format of the game.

The board stressed that any narrative suggesting internal discussions or outreach regarding the Test coaching role is unfounded. Officials also expressed concern over how quickly unverified information can gain traction, reiterating that decisions of this nature are taken through formal and transparent processes.

Test Setbacks Fuel Rumours

The speculation gained momentum following India’s recent struggles in Test cricket. The team endured a 0–2 home series defeat against South Africa, adding to the disappointment of a previous home whitewash against New Zealand. These results not only dented India’s formidable home record but also proved costly in the context of qualification for the ICC World Test Championship final.

Despite early promise with a home series win against Bangladesh, India’s red-ball campaign lost momentum with consecutive defeats. The impact of these losses extended beyond results, leading to questions over long-term planning, leadership continuity and the transition of senior players.

Contrasting Fortunes In White-Ball Cricket

While Test cricket has presented challenges, India’s performance in limited-overs formats under Gambhir has been far more encouraging. The team enjoyed success in major tournaments, lifting continental and global trophies without dropping a match. This contrast has played a key role in the board’s continued backing of the current coaching setup.

Officials believe that performance across formats must be assessed holistically rather than in isolation. The view within the board is that the coaching group has delivered strong outcomes overall, particularly in shaping a competitive and confident white-ball unit.

Transition Phase And Leadership Changes

India’s Test team is also navigating a period of transition, with several senior players stepping away from the longest format. Injuries to key personnel during crucial matches further disrupted continuity, forcing leadership changes mid-series. Despite these challenges, younger players have shown promise, particularly during competitive away tours that ended in closely contested results.

The board has indicated that such transitional phases require stability rather than abrupt changes, especially in the coaching staff. Building a new core around emerging leaders remains a priority as India recalibrates its Test ambitions.

Focus Shifts To Upcoming Global Challenge

With no immediate Test assignments on the horizon, India’s attention has now turned towards defending its global T20 title. A new-look squad, led by a different captain, is set to begin its campaign in a high-profile tournament hosted at home. The team has been placed in a competitive group and will face a mix of established rivals and emerging sides.

Officials believe the upcoming tournament presents an opportunity to reinforce confidence and showcase depth, particularly as a younger generation takes centre stage on a global platform.

Stability Remains The Key Message

By firmly dismissing speculation surrounding the Test coaching role, the board has signalled its intent to maintain stability during a crucial rebuilding phase. While results in red-ball cricket remain an area of concern, officials appear committed to long-term planning rather than reactive decisions driven by short-term outcomes.