New Delhi: VVS Laxman, along with his support staff at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is likely to accompany the Indian cricket team to Zimbabwe for the five-match T20I series starting on July 6. This comes as Gautam Gambhir is expected to begin his tenure as head coach during the Sri Lanka tour.

The Indian squad for the Zimbabwe series is expected to be announced by the end of this week, on either June 22 or 23. Currently, young IPL performers and players on the BCCI’s ‘targeted list’ are participating in a camp under Laxman’s supervision at the NCA.

Gambhir is the frontrunner to become the head coach of the senior men’s team, edging out former women’s team head coach WV Raman. The formal announcement of his appointment is anticipated to occur in the coming days.

Laxman’s involvement with the team for the Zimbabwe series will provide a continuity of leadership and coaching as the team prepares for an important international fixture. The series will offer an opportunity for emerging players to showcase their talent on the international stage under the guidance of experienced coaches.

The transition in coaching staff comes at a crucial time for Indian cricket, with several key tournaments and tours lined up. Gambhir’s anticipated role as head coach signals a new chapter for the senior men’s team, with expectations of building a strong and competitive squad.