VVS Laxman, the Head of Cricket at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE), has robustly defended the institution against mounting criticism, emphasising its multifaceted role beyond merely rehabilitating injured players.
His comments come as Indian cricket grapples with a significant injury crisis, prompting BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to schedule a crucial meeting at the Bengaluru facility today to assess the situation.
CoE’s Evolving Mandate Beyond Rehabilitation
As per India Today, addressing concerns over the spate of player breakdowns, Laxman asserted that the CoE is ‘not merely a rehab centre’ and holds ‘bigger roles to play for it in helping cricketers achieve excellence.’He highlighted that injuries are an ‘unavoidable part of a professional cricketer’s career’ and stressed the importance of a critical monitoring system rather than assigning blame. The CoE, formerly known as the National Cricket Academy (NCA), has historically been responsible for player development, coaching programmes across all levels, and nurturing young talent, a mandate that Laxman insists remains central to its operations.
Deepening Injury Crisis Prompts BCCI Intervention
The Indian team is currently facing an alarming injury crisis, with reports suggesting that almost an entire playing XI could be formed from the list of sidelined cricketers. Approximately 10 to 13 players are presently undergoing rehabilitation at the CoE. Key players such as Jasprit Bumrah (knee swelling), B Sai Sudharsan (left big toe injury), Harshit Rana (hamstring), Nitish Kumar Reddy (hamstring), and Washington Sundar (quadriceps) are among those recovering. Adding to the woes, captain Shubman Gill sustained a hand injury during a warm-up match in Sri Lanka, further exacerbating the team’s availability concerns ahead of a crucial Test series.
Scrutiny and Calls for Enhanced Protocols
The widespread injuries have placed the CoE’s rehabilitation management programme under intense scrutiny. Rumours have circulated regarding a lack of synchronisation between the CoE and the national selection committee concerning injury timelines and player clearances. Reports also indicate that the team physiotherapist, team doctor, and the CoE’s overall programme are ‘under the scanner,’ with discussions underway to implement changes to fitness parameters and protocols.
Furthermore, the Sports Science team at the CoE is reportedly “overworked” and has been operating without a permanent head since Nitin Patel’s resignation in early 2025. Captain Shubman Gill has also publicly called for higher fitness standards within the team, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia’s visit to the CoE today is expected to be a critical step in addressing these concerns, as he is set to meet with Laxman to ‘take stock of the rehabilitation management programme.’ The outcome of this meeting and the subsequent actions taken will be crucial in navigating Indian cricket through its current injury challenges and ensuring the long-term fitness and excellence of its players.