Indian cricket legend VVS Laxman has officially confirmed that he was slated to replace Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian men’s senior national team in 2023.
Key Factors
While Laxman focused on the CoE-occasionally stepping in as interim head coach for bilateral series-the permanent head coach baton eventually passed to Gautam Gambhir in 2024. Under Gambhir, India secured the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 Champions Trophy, and the 2026 T20 World Cup. Because of what Jay and the BCCI have given me…
Laxman added that he had transparent discussions with Jay Shah regarding his situation. “I went and spoke to Jay twice. He understood my reasons. I committed to the BCCI. Hey, I have not taken up the head coach position, but I will make sure I establish the COE. Instead of traveling with the senior team, Laxman chose to dedicate his efforts to grassroots and developmental cricket. He extended his stint at the CoE by two years to ensure the establishment of proper structures, processes, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all departments. The Shubman Gill-led Indian side is now gearing up for a crucial two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, starting August 15th at the Galle International Stadium. With the race to the World Test Championship (WTC) final heating up, Team India must win six of their next nine Test matches to stay in contention.
Laxman clarified that he turned down the high-profile position due to “personal reasons,” paving the way for Rahul Dravid’s tenure extension and the eventual appointment of Gautam Gambhir.
Evidence and Data
Following the conclusion of the 2023 ODI World Cup, Rahul Dravid’s original contract had expired. However, personal commitments forced the 134-Test veteran to step back.
He was the primary choice to take over the mantle, according to Laxman.
