In a surprising yet welcome development, former Indian batting great VVS Laxman has joined the Indian cricket team in England, just days before the start of the high-stakes five-match Test series. While Laxman holds no official designation with the touring squad, his presence has sparked interest and speculation, especially in light of head coach Gautam Gambhir’s temporary absence due to a family emergency.
Gambhir flew back to India after his mother suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the ICU in New Delhi. With the first Test scheduled to begin on June 20 in Leeds, the Indian camp has been in preparation mode, including an intra-squad match in Beckenham. Laxman, who is currently the Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), was seen interacting with players and support staff during the game.
No Official Role, But Valuable Presence
Despite rumors suggesting Laxman might be stepping in as interim coach, BCCI sources have clarified that he is not on any formal assignment. According to reports, Laxman was in Lausanne, Switzerland, for a separate engagement and made a planned stop in London to spend time with the team.
“He may have spoken to the coaches and selectors present here, and perhaps even attended the intra-squad game. But he holds no official role with this team,” a BCCI source told Cricbuzz.
Nevertheless, his presence is being viewed as a morale booster. With 11 Tests and over 20 first-class matches in England under his belt, Laxman’s experience in English conditions is invaluable, especially for a young Indian side missing stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Also Read: ENG vs IND: Gautam Gambhir Blasts Yashasvi Jaiswal for Poor Returns in Practice Games
Gambhir Expected to Return Before First Test
Meanwhile, Gambhir is expected to rejoin the squad before the opening Test, provided his mother’s condition continues to improve. Sources close to the situation have indicated that he could be back in England by June 18, just in time to oversee final preparations.
As India embarks on a challenging tour with a revamped squad led by Shubman Gill, Laxman’s informal mentorship could prove to be a quiet but crucial influence in the dressing room. Whether or not he stays on for the series, his brief involvement has already added a layer of experience and calm to a team in transition.
Team India schedule for the England Tests
- First Test: June 20-24 at Headingley, Leeds
- Second Test: July 2-6 at Edgbaston, Birmingham
- Third Test: July 10-14 at Lord’s, London
- Fourth Test: July 23-27 at Old Trafford, Manchester
- Fifth Test: July 31-August 4 at The Oval, London
Follow Us on Instagram and X (Twitter) for regular updates.
