India coach Gautam Gambhir returned home from England training due to a family medical emergency. On the other hand, the former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman has been spotted with the Indian team over the past two days. While his presence hasn’t been officially confirmed by the BCCI, is he stepping in to temporarily replace Gambhir?
Laxman has long been a important figure in India’s red-ball cricket, both as a player and coach. He played 34 first-class matches in England, including 11 Tests across three tours -- 2002, 2007, and 2011. The remaining 23 include 16 County matches for Lancashire and seven tour games for India.
Off the pitch too, Laxman has contributed, serving as India’s interim coach multiple times over the past two years. And according to reports, he was BCCI’s first choice to succeed Rahul Dravid as head coach, however, later Gautam Gambhir was chosen.
Nevertheless, a report from Cricbuzz suggests that VVS Laxman's presence in England may not be linked to any official role with the Indian team, contrary to the growing speculation.
“He has gone there for some other purpose, not on any assignment with the Indian team. He travelled to London from Lausanne,” a BCCI source clarified. Another insider added, “The target is to win in England, and while he may have spoken to coaches and selectors, or even watched the intra-squad game, he holds no formal designation with the squad.”
Will Gautam Gambhir Rejoin India in England?
According to Cricbuzz sources, yes. “He will definitely rejoin the team before the first Test,” a source close to Gambhir confirmed. “He has consulted doctors regarding his mother's condition, which has shown improvement. He is now planning his return--possibly as early as Monday.”
India have completed their warm-up fixture against India A in Beckenham. The intra-squad match served as the final preparation ahead of the five-match Test series against England, which begins on June 20 in Leeds.
