VVS Laxman is reportedly set to take on a new and significant role in Indian cricket administration. Reports on Friday, August 14, suggested that the former India batter could be appointed as the BCCI’s Director of Cricket. The BCCI, however, has not officially confirmed the development, while details about the proposed position are yet to be finalized.
Laxman currently serves as the head of the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The facility is central to the development of India’s emerging and established cricketers. His possible elevation to the Director of Cricket role would give him a broader administrative responsibility within the board.
Since ending his playing career, Laxman has established himself in both coaching and cricket administration. He previously took charge of a young Indian side during the T20I series in Zimbabwe when Gautam Gambhir and the regular support staff were rested following the England tour. Under Laxman, India completed a 3-0 series victory.
Laxman’s biggest contribution in recent years has been his work at the Centre of Excellence, where he has helped oversee India’s wider cricket development system. He was also considered for the India head coach position in 2024 following Rahul Dravid’s departure, but ultimately decided to continue with his responsibilities at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
The proposed Director of Cricket position could place Laxman in a senior oversight role covering various aspects of Indian cricket. However, the BCCI has not yet explained how the position would function or what specific powers would come with it.
One of the key unanswered questions is the role’s relationship with the national selection committee. It is still unclear whether the Director of Cricket would operate above the selection committee or take over some of the duties currently handled by chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
The BCCI has also not clarified whether Laxman’s possible appointment would have any impact on Agarkar’s current position or his reported potential extension until June 2027. The board is yet to outline how the two positions would work alongside each other.
Until the BCCI makes a formal announcement, Laxman’s appointment remains unconfirmed. The exact responsibilities of the proposed role and its impact on Indian cricket’s existing administrative structure are expected to become clearer only after the board provides an official update.