VVS Laxman With Indian Team in England Despite Holding “No Official Role”
VVS Laxman is currently in England alongside the Indian cricket squad, but contrary to circulating reports, he has not been appointed to any official coaching or support role.
According to BCCI sources, Laxman’s visit to England directly followed a trip to Lausanne and was not associated with any assignment from the board. 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.”
Laxman’s presence at recent intra-squad practice matches might have helped Team India—particularly the batters—benefit from his vast Test experience in English conditions. However, the same BCCI source emphasized he “holds no official role with this team,” though he may have interacted informally with coaches or selectors.
The development arrives amid head coach Gautam Gambhir’s temporary absence; he flew back to India due to a family health emergency involving his mother, who remains in the ICU. Despite this, Gambhir is expected to rejoin the squad ahead of the first Test starting June 20 in Leeds.
In summary, while VVS Laxman—now Head of Cricket at NCA and mentor for India A and U-19 teams—is offering informal guidance in England, he is not a part of the Indian team’s official support staff.