If reports are to be believed, former India cricketer VVS Laxman is set to extend his term as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief in Bengaluru. His initial tenure of three years ends in September 2024.

VVS Laxman was also approached by an IPL franchise for the head coach position, but with now him extending his term as chief of NCA by atleast a year, that won’t be possible.

He is likely to be assisted by his team of coaches, including Sitanshu Kotak, Sairaj Bahutule, and Hrishikesh Kanitkar, all stalwarts of Indian domestic cricket.

The extension of Laxman's contract comes ahead of the opening of a new state-of-the-art NCA campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru, the foundation for which was laid in January 2022, 14 years after the Karnataka government approved the land for a 99-year lease.

The NCA, which is believed to have at least 100 pitches, indoor facilities with 45 pitches, three international-sized grounds, a sophisticated rehab facility, accommodation facilities, and Olympic-sized pools, among other attractions, is nearing completion. It is projected to be operating by early next year.

One of Laxman's challenges will be to expand on Rahul Dravid's extensive India A tour program. It has, however, been impeded recently by a hectic international schedule.

During his first three years at the NCA, Laxman expanded on the robust mechanisms established for injury management, player rehabilitation, coaching programs, and developing roadmaps for senior teams, age groups, and women's cricket.

Laxman's own illustrious playing career, which saw him amass 8,781 runs in 134 Tests and 2,338 runs in 86 ODIs for India, makes him an ideal mentor for the next generation.

The extension of Laxman's tenure reflects the BCCI's confidence in his leadership and vision for the NCA.

(ESPNCricinfo report)