VVS Laxman Likely to be Named First Director of Cricket by BCCI

In a groundbreaking development set to redefine the administrative landscape of Indian cricket, legendary former batter VVS Laxman is strongly tipped to become the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) first-ever Director of Cricket. This pivotal appointment is anticipated as part of a major structural overhaul planned by the board, with official announcements expected in September 2026. Zaheer Khan Front-Runner to Replace Ajit Agarkar as Team India Chief Selector: Report

Currently serving as the Head of Cricket at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, the 51-year-old Laxman is understood to be taking on an expanded mandate that will place him at the helm of strategic cricketing operations. Sources close to the BCCI indicate that this new designation will hierarchically position Laxman above key figures such as current head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, providing a unified vision for Indian cricket.

A Broader, More Structured Role

The Director of Cricket position is designed to be a central hub for all cricketing activities within the BCCI, aiming to foster greater coordination and a long-term strategic approach. Laxman's role will encompass a wide array of responsibilities, extending significantly beyond his existing duties at the CoE.

Key areas of focus for the new Director of Cricket are expected to include:

• Master Coordination: Acting as the central link between senior national teams (men's and women's), national selection committees, head coaches, and the entire developmental pipeline.
• Talent Oversight: Overseeing the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, managing high-performance programs, player rehabilitation, and sports science protocols for elite players.
• Player Pathway Management: Guiding the progression of players from the Under-19 and India A teams to the senior squad, ensuring consistent playing styles and culture.
• Long-Term Strategic Vision: Formulating roadmaps for major ICC tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup, advising on player workload management, and identifying future leaders.
• Staff Appointments: Taking responsibility for staff appointments within the broader cricketing framework.

Context and Impact

Laxman, born on November 1, 1974, has been at the forefront of player development since succeeding Rahul Dravid as the head of the revamped CoE in November 2021. His commitment to the CoE saw him decline the opportunity to become India's head coach in 2024, prioritising the facility's growth. His successful interim stints as head coach for the senior team, most recently leading India to a 3-0 T20I series victory in Zimbabwe in July 2026, have only strengthened his credentials for a more expansive role. VVS Laxman Set for Major BCCI Promotion as Director of Cricket: Report

The move comes at a crucial juncture, with Ajit Agarkar's tenure as chairman of the senior men's selection committee, which was due to expire in June 2026, recently extended until June 2027, and a broader review of India's coaching setup and recent performances under scrutiny. By establishing a Director of Cricket, the BCCI aims to create a more integrated and collaborative structure, breaking down silos and ensuring every department aligns towards a common, long-term goal for Indian cricket.

While an official confirmation from the BCCI is still awaited, the widespread reports suggest that Laxman's contract at the CoE is also expected to be extended for two more years, with the new Director of Cricket designation formalising his expanded responsibilities and influence across the entire spectrum of Indian cricket.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 18, 2026 10:05 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).