VVS Laxman to coach India's men's cricket team at 2026 Asian Games

Former star batsman VVS Laxman is set to take over the coaching responsibilities of the Indian men's cricket team for the upcoming 2026 Asian Games, according to the latest developments surrounding the national setup. This high-profile assignment places Laxman at the helm of the squad for the multi-sport continental event, bringing his extensive experience and leadership to the tournament. Previously, Laxman successfully guided a young Indian side to a resounding 3-0 T20I series victory against Zimbabwe, establishing his credentials for leading developmental and secondary squads while senior coaching staff focus on primary international commitments.

The 2026 edition of the Asian Games is officially scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, running from September 19 through October 4. During this exact window, the broader Indian cricketing schedule faces a significant overlap, as the senior national team is slated to host a white-ball series against the West Indies at home. To manage these concurrent international fixtures effectively, regular head coach Gautam Gambhir will remain with the senior Indian team for the West Indies series, necessitating the separate coaching arrangement led by Laxman for the Asian Games contingent traveling to Japan.

Alongside the coaching transition, leadership within the playing squad has also been outlined for the continental competition. Shreyas Iyer is expected to assume the crucial role of captain for the Indian men's cricket team at the Asian Games, steering the side on the field as they represent the nation in Aichi-Nagoya. The squad composition and leadership under Iyer will aim to emulate the historic success achieved by Indian cricket at the previous edition of the games, setting high expectations for the delegation.

Indian cricket holds a proud legacy entering this tournament, having secured the prestigious gold medal in the cricket discipline at the preceding 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou. Defending that championship status will be a primary objective for Laxman, Iyer, and the rest of the touring delegation. The scheduling overlap with the West Indies series—which commences on September 27—means the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) will witness concurrent high-level action as India fields separate competitive units across different international venues.