The former Indian cricketer is all set to take over as head coach Team India‘s upcoming white ball tour South Africa. This decision is the current national coach Gautam Gambhirstop on Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 Preparation in Australia.
The legendary batsman will lead India during the tour of South Africa
According to the information included in the report cricbuzzthe Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Plumbing Laxman will start working as the head coach of the tour. A respected figure in Indian cricket, Laxman will oversee the team during the four-match T20I series.
It should be noted that India is scheduled to play T20Is in Durban, Gkeberha, Centurion and Johannesburg on November 8, 10, 13 and 15 respectively. The Indian team will leave for South Africa on November 4, and the team for Border-Gavaskar Trophy will leave for Australia on November 10-11.
The coaching staff will be supported by NCA experts
Laxman will be supported by coaches from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He will join the coaching staff Sairaj Bahutule, Hrishikesh Kanitkarand Subhadeep Ghosh. Bahutule, who has experience as a head coach, will be joined by Kanitkar (batting coach) and Ghosh (fielding coach). They were earlier part of the coaching set-up for the Indian Developing side in the Asia Developing Cup in Oman. Other NCA-affiliated coaches, Sitanshu Kotak and Mazhar Moidu, are currently accompanying the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led India A team on their tour of Australia.
Also READ: BCCI announces 3-player T20I squad for India’s South Africa tour
Suryakumar Yadav to lead India in T20Is
BCCI has recently named a 15 man squad for the T20I series. Suryakumar Yadav took the reins as captain. familiar faces such as Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samsonand Hardik Pandyawith promising talents like Tilak Varma, Varun Chakrabortyand Ravi Bishnoi also makes the cut. The series is seen as an opportunity for players to prove their mettle ahead of the IPL auction.
How the appointment of a new coach can benefit the Indian team
The appointment of Laxman as the head coach for the tour of South Africa can bring several benefits to the team. Known for his calm demeanor and technical acumen, Laxman has played a key role in nurturing young talent at NCA. His experience and ability to mentor emerging players can help India test the strength of their bench and prepare future stars for bigger challenges. The T20I series can also act as a platform for youngsters to gain invaluable exposure and make a case for themselves ahead of the upcoming tournaments.
