National Cricket Academy (NCA) head VVS Laxman, is likely to take charge of Team India for the five-match T20I series against Australia scheduled right after the ongoing 2023 ODI World Cup. The series is slated to begin on November 23 in Vishakapatnam and marks the third white-ball bilateral series between the two sides in the subcontinent.
Rahul Dravid’s likely absence from the T20I series against Australia is due to two factors, according to a PTI report. To begin, the former India captain’s contract as head coach of the squad expires after the completion of the World Cup. As the current coach, he has every right to reapply, and his argument may get stronger, if not unarguable, if India wins the World Cup.
Coaching a national team has recently grown into quite a challenging task, largely because of the unrelenting pressure and demanding schedule involved. Amidst this, Rahul Dravid’s potential to work with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises-who are almost certain to embrace him onto their coaching teams-is a notable alternative. He’s no stranger to this scene; after retiring from his cricket career, Dravid previously worked with the Rajasthan Royals.
Furthermore, the head coach, as well as the key players, have had a busy few months. They have played non-stop cricket since the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka in 2023. As a consequence, it is only normal for the elite players to take a well-deserved breather while the peripheral players continue their journey to the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Rahul Dravid’s coaching role often taken over by VVS Laxman
If Rahul Dravid chooses not to reapply for the head coach position after his current contract ends, VVS Laxman could be a strong contender among other applicants for the role. Much like Dravid did a few years ago, the former batter is making strides in a similar direction, leading the NCA and temporarily managing the senior team.
A BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity:
“VVS Laxman has always been in charge when Rahul has taken a break and same thing is likely to continue for the series just after the World Cup.”
VVS Laxman took over as coach of the Indian team not long ago. He was the head coach for the three-match T20I series against Ireland, as well as the Men in Blue’s gold-medal bid at the Asian Games 2023.
