BENGALURU:
During a press conference at the CoE, Laxman expressed gratitude for the autonomy he has been granted by the BCCI, particularly under the leadership of former secretary Jay Shah and current secretary Devajit Saikia. “I committed to the BCCI that I'm not taking up the head coach position. You all know that I was approached back in 2024,” he stated, emphasizing his dedication to solidifying the CoE's framework and operational protocols before considering any future roles.
Focus on Development and Structure
Having taken over as head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in 2021, Laxman is keen on establishing a robust structure at the CoE. He articulated his vision for the facility, stating, “I'll make sure that I establish the CoE, its structure, the processes and the protocols... before I move on, after the two years' stay.” His commitment to the CoE comes amid ongoing speculation regarding his potential candidacy for the chief selector position, which will be vacated by Ajit Agarkar in September. However, Laxman refrained from commenting on any future plans beyond his current role.
Addressing Injury Concerns
In light of recent concerns regarding the number of Indian players recovering from injuries, Laxman defended the CoE's broader mission, asserting that it should not be viewed solely as a rehabilitation center. Notable players such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are currently undergoing recovery at the facility. “CoE is not just a rehab centre, but there are bigger roles to play for it in helping cricketers achieve excellence,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of individualized recovery timelines. Laxman assured that there is effective communication between the CoE, selectors, and team management, with players being released only after meeting specific fitness criteria.
Additionally, Laxman pointed to the development of young talent and his involvement in women's cricket as key achievements during his tenure. He concluded by stating, “Trophies are a by-product of what systems and processes you set,” reinforcing his commitment to enhancing Indian cricket and supporting players in reaching their full potential.
