The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is close to finalizing the new head coach for the Indian men’s cricket team. As Rahul Dravid steps away following the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup, the coaching responsibilities are set to shift.
VVS Laxman: In Charge of the Zimbabwe Tour
Former India player Gautam Gambhir has been touted as the next head coach after his successful stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, a recent report from PTI indicates that Gambhir’s first assignment will be the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka in July-August. Meanwhile, VVS Laxman, the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), will take charge of the team for the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe in July.
Laxman has previously stepped in as head coach for the second-string side during Rahul Dravid’s breaks or when the senior team was on tour. His familiarity with the team and experience make him a suitable choice for the Zimbabwe series.
Zimbabwe Tour Details
The young Indian squad for the Zimbabwe tour will comprise breakthrough stars from the IPL 2024 season. The selection committee is expected to announce the squad soon, with either Hardik Pandya or Suryakumar Yadav likely to lead the team. Following the Zimbabwe tour, India’s white-ball season continues with a tour of Sri Lanka, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is. This assignment could mark the beginning of Gambhir’s tenure as head coach.
