The BCCI has made a significant change to the way Team India’s selection meetings will be conducted. Going forward, former India batter VVS Laxman will also be present alongside the national selectors when important selection decisions are discussed.
The move comes amid growing concerns over player injuries and the need for better coordination between the selection committee and the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.
Why will VVS Laxman attend selection meetings?
According to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, Laxman’s role at the Centre of Excellence makes his presence particularly important during selection discussions.
Laxman heads the Centre of Excellence, where players’ fitness and injury-related assessments are prepared. His participation is expected to ensure that selectors have direct access to the latest information about a player’s fitness before making selection decisions.
Saikia indicated that the move would help reduce any communication gap between the selectors and the Centre of Excellence.
Laxman has access to players’ injury reports
Laxman is also the BCCI’s Head of Cricket and has access to injury and fitness reports concerning players. His presence in the meeting could therefore give selectors a clearer picture of whether a player is fully fit, recovering or still facing limitations.
The decision was reportedly taken following a review meeting held in Mumbai.
Instead of relying only on fitness updates communicated through different channels, selectors will now have Laxman directly available to clarify concerns surrounding players.
Injury issues have become a major concern
The timing of the decision is significant, particularly with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
After India’s third ODI against the West Indies, captain Shubman Gill expressed disappointment over the absence of several players because of injuries. He also highlighted the concern surrounding the limited time available to build and settle the team before the World Cup.
With injuries affecting team combinations, accurate information about player availability has become increasingly important.
BCCI wants selectors to make better-informed decisions
Saikia explained that Laxman’s involvement is intended to provide selectors with accurate and up-to-date information about players’ injury situations.
The change could make selection meetings more streamlined, particularly when there is uncertainty over whether an injured player can return in time for a particular series.
With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, the BCCI will be hoping that better coordination between the selection committee and its cricket operations team can help India manage player fitness more effectively and build a settled squad well ahead of the tournament.
