‘Not Taking Up the Position’: Why Laxman Turned Down Head Coach Job After Dravid

VVS Laxman, a 49-year-old former Indian batter, surprised many in cricket circles when he turned down the head coach position after Rahul Dravid’s tenure. The decision to stay on as head of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) has sparked debate about Laxman’s priorities and career trajectory.

Laxman’s commitment to establishing a robust structure at the CoE, which he took over in 2021, is evident in his decision to extend his tenure for two more years. This allows him ample time to see through his vision of making the CoE an integral part of India’s cricket ecosystem. However, it also raises questions about Laxman’s willingness to put family above national team responsibilities.

In a press conference last Sunday, Laxman mentioned that he had committed not to take up the head coach position, suggesting this decision was made some time ago. The timing of his announcement is intriguing, coming as it does amidst speculation about his potential consideration for other prominent BCCI roles, including chief selector.

Laxman has been linked to the chief selector position, which will become vacant in September when Ajit Agarkar steps down. His experience and expertise make him an ideal candidate, but it remains to be seen if the BCCI will consider him or have other plans afoot.

The controversy surrounding the CoE’s role in India’s cricket ecosystem has been ongoing, with concerns about its effectiveness in providing timely support to injured players. Laxman defended the facility strongly last Sunday, insisting that it was not just a rehabilitation centre but a hub for helping cricketers achieve excellence. However, his assertion that there are “seamless” communication channels between the CoE, selectors, and team management has been disputed by some.

The development of young cricketers and Laxman’s involvement in women’s cricket have been touted as major achievements during his tenure at the CoE. He has emphasized the importance of setting robust systems and processes that can help Indian cricket become stronger.

As Laxman prepares to leave the CoE in 2026, many questions remain about what this means for Indian cricket. Will he be considered for other prominent BCCI roles or mentioned as a potential candidate for future national team positions? The answers are uncertain, but one thing is clear: VVS Laxman’s decision has left many wondering about his priorities and career trajectory.

The need for strong leadership, effective systems, and processes remains constant in Indian cricket. As we navigate this complex landscape, Laxman’s decision will undoubtedly be watched with interest. The future of Indian cricket hangs in the balance, and only time will tell how Laxman’s decision will shape its course.