Former Indian batting maestro VVS Laxman will continue to helm the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for at least another year, dashing hopes of IPL franchises eyeing his coaching acumen. Laxman’s initial three-year term was set to conclude in September, but the BCCI has decided to retain his services for the development of young cricketers.
No IPL contract for Laxman!
The decision to extend Laxman’s tenure comes amidst reports of an IPL franchise showing keen interest in appointing him as head coach. There were many reports of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) of roping in the ‘Very Very Special’ Laxman in a mentorship role. However, the NCA’s crucial role in nurturing future cricketing talent has taken precedence.
The announcement coincides with the upcoming inauguration of a state-of-the-art NCA campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The long-awaited facility, for which the foundation was laid in 2022, is set to provide world-class infrastructure for the holistic development of cricketers. The new NCA will also see Olympic athletes train and receive world-class recovery.
Also read:
Laxman will be assisted by a formidable coaching staff, including domestic cricket stalwarts Shitanshu Kotak, Sairaj Bahutule, and Hrishikesh Kanitkar. This experienced team is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket. While Laxman’s IPL aspirations have been put on hold for now, his continued involvement with the NCA is seen as a significant boost for Indian cricket. As the architect of the NCA’s future, he is expected to play a crucial role in producing the next generation of cricketing stars.