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Laxman Seen with Indian Team in England, But Has No Official Role
VVS Laxman’s Presence in England Unofficial, Confirms BCCI Sources
Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman has recently been spotted alongside the Indian national team in England, sparking widespread speculation about his involvement. However, multiple sources have clarified that the legendary batter holds no official role during this tour. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not assigned Laxman any formal responsibilities for the ongoing series in the UK.
BCCI Affirms: No Formal Assignment for Laxman
Despite his proximity to the Indian contingent during recent training sessions and matches, BCCI officials have confirmed that Laxman’s visit is unofficial. One insider stated, “He has gone there for some other purpose, not on any assignment with the Indian team. He travelled to London from Lausanne.”
While Laxman continues to serve as the head of the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, his current presence in England appears to be personal. Sources suggest he may have been in Switzerland for a conference and used the opportunity to drop by in London.
Potential Informal Contributions
May Have Shared Insights with Indian Team Management
Given Laxman’s vast experience, including 34 first-class matches in England—11 of them Test appearances and 16 for Lancashire—it is not surprising that he may have had casual discussions with the Indian coaching staff. One source indicated that Laxman may have spoken to team coaches and selectors or attended the recent intra-squad practice game.
Despite this informal involvement, another source was quick to clarify, “He holds no official role with this team.” Speculation that his presence is linked to head coach Gautam Gambhir’s temporary absence has also been addressed.
Gambhir Expected to Return Ahead of Leeds Test
Gautam Gambhir, who had flown back to Delhi due to his mother’s hospitalization, is expected to return to England within the next three days. A source close to the coach stated, “He will definitely rejoin the team before the first Test. He has consulted the doctors about his mother’s condition, which has improved although she continues to be in the ICU.”
The Indian team will travel to Leeds on June 17 following a scheduled rest day on June 16, in preparation for the first Test match starting June 20 at Headingley.
Read about England’s Test schedule on the ECB’s official site
Laxman’s Red-Ball Experience in England
Laxman’s career includes:
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11 Test matches in England between 2002 and 2011
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16 County Championship matches for Lancashire
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7 first-class games with Indian touring sides
His expertise in English conditions has long been acknowledged by the Indian setup, making his informal presence perhaps more significant than it appears on the surface.
