VVS Laxman Commends Virat Kohli as an Exemplary Professional and Details Centre of Excellence Mission
VVS Laxman, the head of the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), has lauded senior batter Virat Kohli as an exemplary professional whose high personal standards serve as a guide for upcoming cricketers. Speaking during a press briefing in Bengaluru, Laxman also elaborated on the expanded objectives of the CoE and provided updates regarding staffing and fitness clearances.
What Happened
During a press conference in Bengaluru on Sunday, August 9, 2026, VVS Laxman discussed Virat Kohli’s approach to the game, highlighting how consistently the batter pursues top benchmarks whenever representing any team. Laxman emphasized that Kohli’s commitment makes him a prime reference point for players rising through the ranks of Indian cricket.
Alongside his remarks on Kohli, Laxman spoke about the institutional direction of the Centre of Excellence, stating that the facility aims to assist cricketers in achieving overall excellence rather than functioning solely as a recovery and rehabilitation base. Laxman also detailed operational hurdles, including difficulties in appointing a Head of Sports Science and Medicine following Nitin Patel’s departure, noting that Andrew Leipus withdrew from the agreed role due to family reasons.
Key Highlights
- Praise for Virat Kohli: Laxman highlighted Kohli’s consistent effort to meet self-imposed standards, calling him a role model that younger cricketers strive to emulate.
- CoE’s Broader Scope: The Centre of Excellence is positioned as an institution dedicated to supporting players across their careers to achieve high performance, extending beyond basic injury recovery.
- Staffing Challenges: Filling the Head of Sports Science and Medicine position remains a challenge, requiring specific stature, experience, and familiarity with Indian players.
- Player Medical Clearances: Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan, previously selected subject to fitness, were evaluated by the CoE medical panel, which opted for caution and withheld clearances ahead of the Sri Lankan Test series.
Why This Matters
Laxman’s remarks underline the leadership standards expected within the national cricket setup and define the structural role of the CoE in player development. Furthermore, the decision of CoE medical experts to withhold clearance for Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan demonstrates a cautious approach to athlete workload and injury management ahead of upcoming international commitments.
What to Watch Next
The Centre of Excellence continues its search for a suitable candidate to lead the Sports Science and Medicine department following the vacancy left by Nitin Patel. The fitness status and ongoing assessment of players including Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan will remain under the purview of the CoE sports science and medical staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did VVS Laxman say about Virat Kohli?
Laxman described Kohli as an exemplary professional who sets high personal standards every time he plays, serving as a role model whom many younger players wish to emulate.
What is the primary role of the BCCI Centre of Excellence?
According to Laxman, the Centre of Excellence is not merely a rehabilitation centre for injured players, but a facility tasked with helping cricketers achieve broader sporting excellence.
Why were Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan withheld from the Sri Lankan Test series?
Both players were included in the squad subject to fitness, but after evaluation, CoE medical and sports science staff chose a cautious approach and withheld their fitness clearance.
Source: CricTracker