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Becoming the head coach of the Indian cricket team is considered a major achievement for any former cricketer. However, former Indian cricketer and head of the BCCI Center of Excellence, VVS Laxman, declined the offer despite receiving it. Laxman has now revealed why he chose to continue his work at the BCCI Center of Excellence rather than become Team India’s head coach.

According to Laxman, he was approached by the BCCI when Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended after the T20 World Cup in 2024. However, he chose to continue his tenure at the Centre of Excellence.

The reason behind this is said to be family reasons as well as an important promise made by him to BCCI.

VVS Laxman was offered the position of head coach of Team India.

BCCI had also approached VVS Laxman during the search for the new head coach of the Indian team after the tenure of Rahul Dravid.

Laxman said that at that time, instead of accepting the responsibility of head coach of Team India, he decided to continue working in the BCCI Centre of Excellence.

According to him, Jay Shah, the then BCCI secretary, gave him complete freedom to work at the Centre of Excellence. He enjoys similar freedom from the current secretary, Devjit Saikia.

Made a special promise to BCCI

Laxman said that he had assured BCCI that he would not accept the post of head coach of Team India.

The importance of the work being done at the BCCI Centre of Excellence also factored into his decision. Laxman chose to continue in his role and fulfill his commitment to the BCCI.

Family was also a major reason for the decision.

According to VVS Laxman, family reasons also played an important role in his decision to reject the post of head coach of Team India.

The role of head coach requires frequent travel, long hours with the team, and a hectic schedule. Laxman, considering his family circumstances, decided to continue working at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.

Gautam Gambhir gets the responsibility of Team India

After VVS Laxman refused to become the head coach, the responsibility of the Indian cricket team was handed over to Gautam Gambhir .

Under Gambhir’s leadership, the Indian team achieved success in the Asia Cup, Champions Trophy, and the T20 World Cup 2026. However, the team’s performance was questioned after Test series defeats against New Zealand and South Africa at home.

Additionally, India lost the Test series in Australia, and also lost Test and ODI series in Ireland and England.

Gambhir’s tenure till 2027 World Cup

According to available information, Gautam Gambhir’s tenure extends until the 2027 World Cup. Therefore, all eyes will be on the Indian team’s upcoming performance.

What decision will be taken regarding the coaching setup of Team India after the World Cup will be clear in the coming time.

Why is Laxman’s decision special?

VVS Laxman’s decision is also being considered important because the post of head coach of Team India is one of the most prestigious responsibilities in Indian cricket.

Despite this, Laxman prioritized his family priorities and his role at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, while also honoring his promise to the BCCI.

VVS Laxman has revealed that the BCCI offered him the position of head coach of Team India after Rahul Dravid’s tenure ends in 2024. However, he declined the offer due to family reasons and his decision to continue his role at the BCCI Center of Excellence. Laxman also revealed that he had assured the BCCI that he would not accept the head coach position. Subsequently, Gautam Gambhir was appointed head coach of the Indian team.