VVS Laxman Likely to Become BCCI Director of Cricket as Board Plans Major September Reshuffle

VVS Laxman is expected to play a larger role in Indian cricket if the proposed appointment is approved. (Photo: Reuters)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering former India batter VVS Laxman for the newly expanded role of Director of Cricket as part of an expected administrative reshuffle later this year.

Laxman, who currently heads the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, could soon oversee broader cricketing operations across the national setup. While the appointment has not been officially confirmed, sources indicate the move is under active consideration ahead of several key decisions expected in September.

The possible restructuring comes at a crucial time for Indian cricket, with changes likely in the selection committee and support staff ahead of major international assignments.

BCCI Eyes Major Leadership Changes

The expected changes coincide with the conclusion of chief selector Ajit Agarkar's current tenure in September. Reports also suggest the BCCI is considering extending Agarkar's term until June 2027, although no formal announcement has been made.

Amid discussions around the future of India's cricket structure, Laxman has emerged as the frontrunner for the Director of Cricket role, which would significantly expand his current responsibilities.

Since taking charge of the Centre of Excellence, Laxman has overseen India's player development programmes, rehabilitation systems and high-performance pathways.

What Would the Director of Cricket Role Involve?

Although the BCCI has not outlined the exact responsibilities of the proposed position, the Director of Cricket is expected to coordinate multiple departments within Indian cricket.

The role could include:

• Overseeing long-term player development.
• Coordinating between selectors, coaches and support staff.
• Managing the transition of players from junior and domestic cricket to the senior national team.
• Strengthening India's high-performance and talent identification systems.
• Creating greater continuity across all national teams.

The appointment would effectively make Laxman one of the key decision-makers shaping Indian cricket's future.

Laxman's Experience Strengthens His Case

Laxman has remained closely associated with the Indian men's team despite leading the Centre of Excellence. He has served as India's interim head coach on multiple occasions whenever the primary coaching staff has been unavailable.

Most recently, he guided a young Indian side to a clean 3-0 T20I series victory over Zimbabwe while head coach Gautam Gambhir and the senior coaching staff were on a scheduled break following the England tour.

His work across age-group cricket, player rehabilitation and national team assignments has strengthened his reputation as one of the BCCI's most trusted administrators.

September Could Be Crucial for Indian Cricket

The coming month is expected to be significant for the BCCI as it reviews several important positions within Indian cricket.

With preparations already underway for future ICC tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup, the board is expected to focus on building a more integrated cricket structure that ensures continuity across coaching, selection and player development.

Laxman's appointment, if approved, would align with that long-term vision by bringing together the Centre of Excellence, national teams and talent development under a more coordinated framework.

Laxman's Journey at the Centre of Excellence

After Rahul Dravid became India's head coach in 2024, Laxman chose to continue leading the revamped Centre of Excellence rather than move into the national coaching role permanently.

Since then, he has played an important role in nurturing emerging cricketers, overseeing rehabilitation programmes and developing India's performance pathways. He has also defended the Centre's work amid discussions surrounding recurring player injuries.

If appointed as Director of Cricket, Laxman would continue to influence Indian cricket at a much broader level while remaining central to the BCCI's long-term planning.

No Official Confirmation Yet

The BCCI has not officially confirmed the appointment or announced the structure of the proposed Director of Cricket role. However, with administrative changes expected in September, Laxman's elevation remains one of the most closely watched developments in Indian cricket.