Indian Test veteran VVS Laxman has been seen in and around the Indian team over the past two days in England. But there has been no official communication regarding the reason for his presence. While several sources have speculated on his visit, it is confirmed that he has not been assigned any formal role by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during this tour.
Laxman is officially associated with the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. It is believed that he might be in England to interact with the team’s coaching staff and offer his insights on playing in English conditions.
The red-ball legend has a rich history in English cricket. He has played 34 first-class matches in England, including 16 for Lancashire and seven for India’s touring sides against England Lions or county teams. He featured in 11 Test matches for India across three tours in 2002, 2007, and 2011.
“He has gone there for some other purpose, not on any assignment with the Indian team. He travelled to London from Lausanne,” said a BCCI source.
“The target is to win in England, and he may have spoken to the coaches and selectors present here, and perhaps even attended the intra-squad game. But he holds no official role with this team,” another source said.
“He went to Switzerland and simply stopped by in London to spend time with the boys. It was always part of his plan,” another source told.
Gambhir expected to link up with team before Headingley Test
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir recently returned to Delhi to be with his mother following her recent hospitalisation. It is understood that this was a personal visit, and he is expected to rejoin the Indian team in England within the next three days.
“He will definitely rejoin the team before the first Test. He has consulted the doctors about his mother’s condition, which has improved, although she continues to be in the ICU. But he will plan his return soon,” said a source close to Gambhir.
The first Test between India and England is scheduled to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. The Indian team recently wrapped up a practice match against India A in Beckenham, and the players will have a rest day on June 16 before travelling to Leeds on June 17 to begin their final preparations for the opening Test.
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