In the absence of head coach Gautam Gambhir, VVS Laxman was spotted at Beckenham during India's intra-squad match ahead of the five-match Test series against England, starting this Friday.

As per multiple reports that came straight from the UK, it suggested that Laxman was closely monitoring the multi-day practice match along with the BCCI chief selector, Ajit Agarkar. Gambhir had to take a flight back to India because of his ailing mother; he has to join his family before the series begins.

VVS Laxman, head of the Centre of Excellence, mainly spent his time with the emerging players. The reason is not clear why he was in Beckenham before the all-important series versus England. There are multiple claims about his arrival in the UK, but all of the reports are suggesting something different. So, as of now, there is no clear indication why the former Indian cricketer was there.

Read More: SCK vs SCL Dream11 Prediction Today: Fantasy Cricket Tips Playing11 and Pitch Report

In a media report it is said, "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."

As of now, the reason is not clear

But another quotation suggested, "He went to Switzerland and simply stopped by in London to spend time with the boys." It was always part of his plan." Among the contrary reports, there are now strong beliefs that Laxman was in Switzerland for a conference before heading to England. But there is no official confirmation from the board of the 50-year-old. 

Whatever the reason might be, his arrival could help the team a lot. He played 11 Tests in England and scored 586 runs at an average of 34.47, including five half-centuries. Laxman played in the county as well, for Lancashire in a couple of seasons. 

Wisden, the cricketing authority, released its list of the top six greatest Indian Test batters of all time on May 12, 2025, in the aftermath of Virat Kohli’s Test retirement, sparking discussions among fans and analysts. The list recognizes India's illustrious Test cricket batting history and highlights players who have played a defining role in the format with their skill, tenacity, and remarkable achievements. With years of consistency and match-winning performances, each of the six batters stamped their mark in the shortest format of Test cricket everywhere they went.

1. Sachin Tendulkar

Leading the list is Sachin Tendulkar, with his 15,921 Test runs in 200 matches at an average of 53.78 that stand unrivalled. Wisden points to his unmatched consistency over a period of 24 years, although he never reached 500 runs in a series or 250 in an innings. Tendulkar's 51 centuries and his ability to overpower attacks across the globe seal his place as India's greatest Test batsman.

2. Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar, with 10,122 runs in 125 Tests, comes second, renowned for his technical wizardry against aggressive pace attacks of the 1970s and 80s. He was the first player to cross the 10,000-run barrier in Tests, an achievement recognized by the BCCI by naming a boardroom '10000 Gavaskar' on May 15, 2025. Gavaskar's 34 centuries and away performances make him an Indian batting trailblazer.

3. Rahul Dravid

Nicknamed 'The Wall,' Rahul Dravid is placed third with 13,288 runs in 164 Tests at an average of 52.31. His marathon innings, like the 270 against Pakistan in 2004, and his performances in India's overseas wins, like the 2001 Kolkata Test, are what set him apart as great. 36 centuries and his unflappable temperament saw him become unstoppable.

4. Virat Kohli

Who retired from Tests on May 12, 2025? He is fourth overall with 9,906 runs in 123 Tests, with 30 centuries. From 2016 to 2019, Kohli was at his peak, made seven double centuries, and was the top batsman in the ICC Test rankings. Kohli was instrumental in changing India's Test fortunes overseas and played an aggressive style of Test cricket and led India to overseas success.

Also Read: List of Mumbai players honored with named stands at Wankhede stadium

5. VVS Laxman

Fifth on the list is VVS Laxman, whose 281 in Kolkata against Australia in 2001 isfrequently consideredy India's greatest Test innings. Laxman scored 8,781 runs in 134 Tests, and his wristy class plagued bowlers, most notably Australia. Hisstandsd with Dravid, particularly in comeback victories, are legendary.

Virender Sehwag

Finally, Sehwag rounds out this list with 8,586 runs in 104 Tests, playing a fearless, attacking game. His 319 against Pakistan in 2008, plus two other triple-centuries, demonstrate his dominance and his ability to redefine the Test opening batting role. With an 82.23 strike rate, Sehwag added an extra dimension to India's game when it came to playing Tests.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has once again been re-appointed as the chairperson of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, reaffirming his continued influence in the cricketing world. The announcement came from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday.

Ganguly, who first took on the role in 2021, replaced another Indian legend, Anil Kumble, after he served the maximum tenure allowed. Known for his bold and transformative leadership during his stint as India’s captain from 2000 to 2005, Ganguly has carried that same sharp cricketing mind into his post-playing career, including his term as BCCI President.

Laxman and Other Legends Join the Panel

Joining Ganguly on the committee is his longtime teammate and fellow Indian batting icon VVS Laxman, who has also been reappointed. The rest of the panel brings together a truly global mix of cricketing experience:

ALSO SEE: "RCB Ne Tod Di Rajasthan Ki Ghar Wali Ghamand!" – Fans go wild as Royal Challengers Bangalore crush RR in their own backyard in IPL 2025

• Desmond Haynes – West Indies batting legend
• Temba Bavuma – South Africa’s current Test and ODI captain
• Hamid Hassan – Former Afghan fast bowler
• Jonathan Trott – Former England batter and current Afghanistan head coach

Together, the committee will advise on key aspects of the men’s game, including playing conditions, rules, player behavior, and technological advancements in the sport.

Catherine Campbell to Head ICC Women’s Cricket Committee

In a parallel announcement, the ICC named Catherine Campbell, former New Zealand off-spinner, as the chairperson of the Women’s Cricket Committee. This move comes at a time when women’s cricket is rapidly expanding and gaining global attention.

ALSO SEE: Top 3 batters with most fifties in T20 cricket

Supporting Campbell on the panel are:

• Avril Fahey – Former Australian cricketer
• Pholetsi Moseki – CEO of Cricket South Africa (CSA)

The committee will be essential in determining the future of women's cricket through developing, structuring, and professionalizing the sport.

These new appointments reflect the ICC's vision for balancing tradition and modernization so that both the men's and women's games can move forward with robust leadership and diverse opinions.

India vs. Australia has been one of the most exciting rivalries in cricket history, delivering unforgettable matches since their first encounter in 1947-48. The contrasting playing conditions in the two countries add a layer of intrigue, making every series unique. Over the decades, many Indian batters have risen to the challenge, dominating Australian bowlers at home and away.

Here’s a look at the top five Indian batters who have scored the most runs against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Virat Kohli – 2042 Runs

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has an outstanding record against Australia across formats. In Test cricket, he ranks fifth among Indians with the most runs against the Aussies.

In 25 matches, Kohli has amassed 2042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries (the second-most by an Indian vs. Australia) and five half-centuries. His highest score of 186 reflects his dominance with the bat. Kohli's leadership was historic; under him, India secured their first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018-19.

4. Cheteshwar Pujara – 2074 Runs

Known for his grit and resilience, Cheteshwar Pujara has been a thorn in Australia’s side. Between 2010 and 2023, Pujara played 25 Tests against them, scoring 2074 runs at an average of 49.38.

Pujara was instrumental in India’s victories in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, emerging as the highest scorer in 2016-17 and 2018-19, and the second-highest in 2020-21. His tally includes five centuries and 11 half-centuries, proving his consistency across challenging conditions.

3. Rahul Dravid – 2143 Runs

Rahul Dravid, often referred to as The Wall, was a dependable batter for India in tough situations. Against Australia, he played 32 Tests between 1996 and 2012, scoring 2143 runs at an average of 39.68.

Dravid's contributions included two centuries and 13 half-centuries. His memorable 233 at Adelaide in 2003, and his partnership with VVS Laxman at Eden Gardens in 2001, underline his significance in India’s Test cricket history.

2. VVS Laxman – 2434 Runs

VVS Laxman had a special connection with playing against Australia, producing some of his career-best performances. He scored 2434 runs in 29 Tests between 1998 and 2012 at an impressive average of 49.67.

His innings of 281 at Eden Gardens in 2001 remains one of the greatest Test knocks of all time, helping India achieve a famous comeback win. Laxman’s six centuries and 12 half-centuries against Australia further highlight his ability to perform under pressure.

See Also: Watch: Travis Head looks set to bring back WC 2023 nightmare

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 3630 Runs

The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar tops the list with 3630 runs against Australia, the most by any Indian and second-most overall in Test cricket. Tendulkar played 39 Tests against Australia from 1991 to 2013, averaging 55 with 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries.

His innings of 241 not out in Sydney in 2004 showcased his mastery over the Australian bowlers. Tendulkar’s consistency and ability to rise to the occasion made him the Aussies’ biggest challenge for over two decades.

The India-Australia rivalry in Test cricket is more than just a contest—it’s a battle of grit, skill, and legacy. These five batters have left an indelible mark on this storied competition, inspiring generations of cricketers and fans alike.

The 0-3 whitewash at home against the Black Caps has raised alarm bells within the BCCI administration, compelling them to revisit their 'A' program which involves bolstering their bench strength for the top-tier Indian team. As per a recent report from TOI, National Cricket Academy (NCA) head VVS Laxman is reportedly devising a strategy to create a player resource pool.

The 'A' program worked as a charm under the supervision of former India head coach Rahul Dravid who used to tour with developmental teams throughout the year thereby offering the highest degree of exposure to young budding India cricketers. 

The issues surrounding the 'A' program in the past

The 'A' program suffered a setback in the past following the advent of the Covid pandemic. These A tours presented a huge financial burden on the other boards as they refrained from sponsoring the India U-19 series and 'A' teams. Despite the pressing challenges, BCCI made concise efforts to organize a couple of shadow 'A' tours like the one that preceded India's Test tour of Australia. 

"Other boards have communicated to the BCCI that they can't bear the expenses of an 'A' tour. The BCCI has still tried to organize a couple of shadow 'A' tours like the one which precedes India's Test tour of Australia. Laxman is working on it to come up with a plan that will offer greater exposure to the next generation of cricketers," a source said.

The major reason behind several boards' reluctance to host the 'A' tours vastly stems from the financial implications. These tours do not generate any revenue and all the expenses have to be incurred by the local boards which makes the 'A' program a highly unsustainable prospect in the long run.  Laxman will have a tricky task at hand and needs to find a viable solution to make these tours more affordable. 

A look into India's most recent 'A' tour

India featured in an 'A' series earlier this year against the England Lions prior to the start of the five-match Test series against England. That series offered an all-round view to the selectors on the players' current standing which in turn provided a baseline for them to make suitable selections ahead of the competitive Test series. 

Moreover, the 'A' program also came into focus in India's previous BGT outing down under where the likes of Siraj, Thaku, Saini, and Sundar all of whom stepped up in the absence of senior players. These players were the by-product of the 'A' series that was scheduled just before the start of the series. On the back of some formidable performances in the 'A' series, these budding youngsters were able to book their place in the Indian playing Xl which subsequently triumphed under dire conditions to clinch the series by 2-1.  

See also: Nitish Reddy included in Ravi Shastri's playing Xl in the upcoming Perth Test

Former India batter and current National Cricket Academy (NCA) head VVS Laxman is likely to join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as the new head coach ahead of IPL 2025. According to a report by Times Of India (TOI), Laxman is expected to step down from his NCA role once his contract expires in September this year.

Transition from NCA to IPL

VVS Laxman, who was one of the top candidates to succeed Rahul Dravid as the head coach of Team India, expressed his reluctance to be constantly on the road with the team. Appointed as the NCA Head Coach in November 2021, Laxman had to relocate from Hyderabad to Bengaluru for the role. However, with his contract nearing its end and his unwillingness to continue, Lucknow Super Giants have shown interest in bringing him on board as part of their coaching staff for the 2025 IPL season.

Future prospects and team changes

Despite Lucknow Super Giants’ failure to qualify for the playoffs, with a seventh-place finish in the league stage, Justin Langer is expected to continue as the head coach. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that skipper KL Rahul might leave LSG and return to Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he made his IPL debut in 2013.

See Also: Ajit Agarkar influences Hardik Pandya’s shocking exit as T20 captain? Report – Cricket Winner

As for the NCA, former India batting coach Vikram Rathour is likely to succeed Laxman. Rathour, who has a long association with the BCCI, served as a national selector and later as the Indian team’s batting coach from 2019 to June 2024. Meanwhile, Laxman, having shifted back to Hyderabad, has reportedly been approached by multiple IPL franchises for coaching roles. Despite being the BCCI’s first preference to replace Dravid, Laxman declined the offer due to his reluctance to travel extensively with the team.

Former India captain and opening batter Sourav Ganguly turned 52 on Monday, July 8. On his special day, let’s look at how the “Prince of Calcutta” changed Indian cricket.

Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains, turned 52 on July 8. Known as ‘Dada,’ he is loved and respected by many. Wishes poured in for him on his birthday, including one from Manoj Tiwary, who expressed his love for the former Bengal captain. Cricket fans in India had more to celebrate as MS Dhoni also had his birthday on Sunday, spending the day with his wife Sakshi.

Ganguly ended his career as one of the most successful captains in cricket. Numbers alone can’t capture his impact on Indian cricket. He inspired many young cricketers like Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh, and MS Dhoni when they started their international careers in the early 2000s.

Ganguly’s memorable debut and early career

Ganguly’s career began with a stunning debut century at Lord’s in 1996. This impressive start set the stage for his future success. He quickly became known as a talented and stylish batsman, forming a strong opening partnership with Sachin Tendulkar in ODIs. Ganguly’s elegant stroke play and ability to dominate bowlers made him a mainstay in the Indian batting lineup.

Ganguly’s rise to captaincy was a key moment for Indian cricket. He became captain in 1999 and soon proved to be a resilient and insightful leader. He helped Indian cricket fans fall in love with the team again, moving past the match-fixing scandal.

Under Ganguly’s leadership, the Indian team became fearless and competitive. His aggressive captaincy style brought new confidence to the team. One of his notable achievements was leading India to the final of the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup. Though India lost to Australia in the final, reaching it was a big accomplishment and revived Indian cricket’s spirit.

Triumphs Against Australia

Ganguly’s captaincy also saw significant successes against Australia. The 2001 home Test series win, highlighted by a famous comeback in the Kolkata Test with an epic partnership between VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, is one of India’s greatest Test series wins. Ganguly’s aggressive captaincy and strategic skills were crucial in that victory.

Beyond his on-field success, Ganguly is known for mentoring young cricketers who became key players for India. He supported talents like Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan, giving them opportunities and building their confidence. His ability to spot and nurture talent shaped the future of Indian cricket.

Ganguly’s legacy of leadership

Ganguly’s leadership, marked by aggression, confidence, and the ability to inspire, left a lasting legacy. He laid the groundwork for the next generation of Indian cricketers and set the stage for future successes, including the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup wins.

As the former BCCI president, Ganguly would surely have been proud when Rohit Sharma and his team lifted the T20 World Cup last month in Barbados.

Abhishek Sharma, a 23-year-old cricketer smashed 8 sixes to score his first T20I century in just 46 balls. The sunrisers star became the 10th Indian to achieve this milestone in T20 international cricket.

In only his second international match, Abhishek from Punjab reached his century in 46 balls, attacking Zimbabwe’s bowlers in the second T20I of a five-match series in Harare on Saturday, July 7. He hit eight sixes and seven boundaries, making it the third fastest century by an Indian in men’s T20 internationals.

Abhishek was on 28 off 24 balls by the eighth over, stabilizing the innings with Ruturaj Gaikwad after the early loss of captain Shubman Gill. Then he unleashed his power, scoring the next 72 runs in just 22 balls with a flurry of sixes.

Despite a duck in his debut match, Abhishek didn’t shy away from his aggressive style. He scored 28 runs in one over from Dion Myers, reaching his fifty in the 11th over with a massive six. This over included two sixes and three boundaries, shifting the momentum back to India.

Abhishek’s power hitting display stuns opponents

In the 14th over, Abhishek hammered Zimbabwe’s Wellington Masakadza for three consecutive sixes, reaching his century with the third six. He attempted another big shot on the next ball but was caught out.

Abhishek’s hundred was the first T20I century by an Indian against Zimbabwe in men’s cricket, and he became the 10th Indian to score a T20I hundred overall.

He had a stroke of luck when Zimbabwe dropped him on 27, a mistake that proved costly. The drop happened in the 8th over, bowled by Luke Jongwe, and was caught by Masakadza at long-off.

Abhishek received a warm round of applause from his teammates, with head coach VVS Laxman and captain Shubman Gill congratulating him on his spectacular performance.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up to release an advertisement for the highly coveted position of head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. With Rahul Dravid’s tenure as coach set to conclude, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the appointment of his successor.

Rahul Dravid’s Tenure and Potential Reapplication

Rahul Dravid, the current head coach of Team India, is nearing the end of his tenure, which is scheduled to conclude in June. However, BCCI’s secretary Jay Shah has clarified that Dravid can reapply for the position if he wishes to continue his coaching journey with the Indian team. Despite this opportunity, it is unlikely that Dravid will extend his tenure beyond June, given his long stint in the role.

Exploring Potential Contenders

As speculation mounts regarding the next head coach of Team India, several potential contenders have emerged, both from India and abroad. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise, making the selection process all the more intriguing.

See Also: Watch: Rohit Sharma’s chat with Abhishek Nayar goes viral, KKR delete video

1. VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman’s coaching journey with Team India began on a high note, with successful stints in the T20 series and a gold medal triumph at the Asian Games 2023. One of Laxman’s notable coaching achievements came during the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China, where he led the Indian team to a gold medal triumph.

Currently serving as the Director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and head coach of the Indian U-19 team, Laxman’s strategic understanding and commitment to player development make him a compelling candidate for the head coach role.

2. Ricky Ponting

With extensive coaching experience, including successful stints with Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals in the IPL, Ricky Ponting emerges as a formidable foreign candidate. He was the coach of Mumbai Indians from 2014-2016 and led them to a trophy in 2015. Post that, he had a couple of coaching stints with the Aussie side in 2017, and then in a tri-series later in the year as well. Then he has been coaching the Delhi Capitals side since 2018.

His proven track record as both a player and a coach, coupled with his astute cricketing acumen, positions him as a strong contender for the Team India head coach role.

3. Ashish Nehra

Despite his unorthodox coaching style, Ashish Nehra has made significant strides in the coaching arena. He has led the Gujarat Titans to wonders with the Gujarat Titans, having won the title in 2022, and making finals in 2023 and earned praise for his camaraderie with players.

In fact, if reports are to be believed, Nehra was offered the role of Team India’s T20I coach, but he declined the offer, in November 2023, after the World Cup. That was perhaps due to his contract with IPL franchise GT.

While his coaching experience may be limited, Nehra’s deep understanding of the game and ability to foster a positive team environment make him a compelling candidate for the position.

4. Andy Flower

Andy Flower’s coaching pedigree speaks for itself, with notable achievements as head coach of the England cricket team, including Ashes victories and an ICC T20 World Cup triumph.

His extensive coaching experience spans various cricketing leagues, currently overseeing teams like Multan Sultans (MS) in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and St Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Flower’s diverse coaching background and proven track record make him an enticing prospect for any cricketing outfit, including Team India. His analytical approach and innovative strategies could inject fresh vitality into Team India’s tactics, making him a sought-after candidate for the head coach role.

5. Gautam Gambhir

As a former India opener and mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir brings a unique blend of aggression and leadership to the coaching arena. He was also Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor during the IPL 2022 edition. Gambhir was impressive and expressive as LSG reached the playoffs in their debut season in the T20 league.

While his coaching experience may be limited compared to other contenders, Gambhir’s passion for the game and commitment to excellence make him a compelling candidate for the Team India head coach position.