Amid India’s injury crisis, Laxman defends BCCI CoE: ‘Not merely a rehab centre’

The Indian men's cricket team's injury crisis has come under the microscope due to the Centre of Excellence (CoE), where players undergo rehabilitation. Head of cricket VVS Laxman has defended the CoE, stating that there is no communication breakdown between the CoE, team management, and selectors regarding injury management. Laxman emphasized that the process is player-centric and team-centric, with seamless communication between all parties involved.

When players Jasprit Bumrah and B Sai Sudharsan were withdrawn from the Sri Lanka Test series due to injuries, they were both undergoing rehabilitation at the CoE. The BCCI had mentioned that their fitness would determine their participation, but their extended absence has raised questions about the CoE's protocols. Laxman dismissed the notion of scapegoating the CoE, stating that there is excellent coordination among the CoE, team management, sports science and medicine, and the selection committee.