VVS Laxman set to lead India at Asian Games 2026 amid split coaching plan

The decision reflects the BCCI's move towards split coaching as the international schedule becomes increasingly congested. The Asian Games will run from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, overlapping with India's white-ball series against the West Indies, which begins on September 27.

Gambhir will therefore supervise the senior squad, while Laxman takes responsibility for the Asian Games contingent.

Shreyas Iyer is expected to captain India as they seek to retain the gold medal secured at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. Laxman was also at the helm for that campaign, when cricket returned to the multi-sport event.

His coaching unit will feature former India internationals Hrishikesh Kanitkar and Sunil Joshi, with Kanitkar working on the batting and Joshi overseeing the bowling. The trio have previously collaborated while handling India's second-string teams.

Laxman has also stepped in as interim head coach on several occasions and recently oversaw a 3-0 T20I series victory over Zimbabwe, further demonstrating his ability to manage younger players.

However, the BCCI could yet revise its plans. The board is reportedly dissatisfied with accommodation arrangements provided by the Asian Cricket Council, with images of cramped rooms and restricted space causing concern. As a result, India could opt to send a second-string squad rather than its strongest available team.