After Rahul Dravid, Indian legend says goodbye to Indian cricket; replacement finalised by BCCI

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman will be concluding his tenure as the 'Head of Cricket' at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in September. VVS Laxman recently expressed hesitance about taking on the role of Team India's head coach after Rahul Dravid, who ended his tenure after the T20 World Cup 2024.

VVS Laxman appeared to be a natural choice as the successor, especially considering his extensive experience and interim coaching role during his tenure at the NCA. However, he did not apply for the position, citing the demanding nature of the role both physically and mentally over the next three and a half years.

Next year, the NCA will relocate to its own expansive facility on the outskirts of Bengaluru, featuring multiple full-sized cricket grounds, a modern gym, a swimming pool, and residential accommodations. With VVS Laxman set to leave his role as Head of Cricket at the NCA, the BCCI will need to pick a candidate to fill his position.

Vikram Rathour Set To Replace VVS Laxman At NCA

Vikram Rathour, who served as India's batting coach, is a potential candidate to succeed VVS Laxman at the NCA. Rathour has extensive experience at the NCA as a batting coach and was a national selector for four years. He is highly regarded for his technical knowledge, making him a favored choice for the role.

"Heard after Rahul Dravid, another legend is expected to leave the Indian cricket set-up due to personal reasons after a successful stint. Vikram Rathour might be the top contender for the post," a sports journalist tweeted.

Heard after Rahul Dravid, another legend is expected to leave the Indian cricket set-up due to personal reasons after a successful stint. Vikram Rathour might be the top contender for the post

— G. S. Vivek (@GSV1980) July 18, 2024

VVS Laxman's Contract Renewal Is Pending - Report

Vikram Rathour is set to replace VVS Laxman at the NCA in Bengaluru, according to sources from Sports Tak. Laxman is unlikely to renew his contract, with discussions reportedly not progressing positively from his end. The final decision is expected after the ICC's Annual General Meeting in Sri Lanka.

“It is very likely that you may see Rathour heading NCA. For now, a call on VVS Laxman's contract renewal is pending but the conversation from his side is not positive,” the source told Sports Tak.

“Rathour might be asked to take charge at NCA. BCCI secretary (Jay Shah) after the ICC meeting is likely to have a word with VVS to understand his side,” the source added.

VVS Laxman recently served as the interim head coach for a young team led by Shubman Gill during India's tour of Zimbabwe. After losing the first match, the inexperienced Indian side bounced back to win the five match T20I series 4-1. Laxman also took charge of the senior team in the absence of Rahul Dravid.

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