New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed reports claiming it held informal discussions with former India batter VVS Laxman regarding the Test head coach role, reaffirming its confidence in current head coach Gautam Gambhir despite India’s recent disappointing performances in red-ball cricket.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia categorically rejected the speculation on Sunday, describing claims of talks with Laxman as “totally incorrect” and “baseless.” Saikia, as reported by Hindustan Times, stated that the board has neither discussed nor taken any steps toward changing the coaching leadership for the national team.
The statement comes in the wake of a tough period for India’s Test side, which was recently whitewashed 0–2 at home by South Africa, its second home series defeat in 12 months under Gambhir’s leadership. The team currently sits sixth in the 2025–27 World Test Championship points table with nine remaining matches.
Despite the struggles in the longest format, Gambhir’s tenure has seen success in limited-overs cricket. Under his guidance, India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy in the 50-over format and lifted the Men’s T20 Asia Cup in September, achievements that have been noted by the board.
Gambhir’s contract with the BCCI runs through to the end of the 2027 ODI World Cup, and while media reports have suggested that the board could revisit his role if India falter at the upcoming T20 World Cup, board officials maintain that no decisions on alterations have been made. Traditionally, the BCCI prefers a cautious, wait-and-watch approach before making major policy changes.
Former India great VVS Laxman, who currently serves as Head of Cricket at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, had previously been touted as a potential candidate to take over the Test coaching job. However, according to reports, Laxman has not been approached and remains content in his current position. As India prepares for upcoming global fixtures, including the T20 World Cup, the BCCI’s clarification aims to quell swirling speculation and reaffirm its support for Gambhir’s leadership across formats
