India tour of Zimbabwe T20 schedule: VVS Laxman has stepped in as India's head coach for the three-match T20 series against Zimbabwe in Harare. Permanent coach Gautam Gambhir has been rested, and Laxman will take charge of the team in his absence. The former Indian batter assumes this role at a time when Team India has been facing a string of series defeats. He will shoulder the significant responsibility of guiding India to victory.
IND vs ZIM T20I Series: What is VVS Laxman record as a coach?
Prior to the T20 series against Zimbabwe, the Indian team suffered a 0-4 loss in T20s and a 1-2 defeat in ODIs against England. Before that, the 'Men in Blue' were defeated 0-2 during the tour of Ireland. Consequently, there are hopes that India will return to winning ways under Laxman's coaching. Having coached Team India previously, let us take a look at his record as head coach.
Led India to victory in Ireland
In 2022, Rahul Dravid was India's permanent coach. India was scheduled to play a two-match T20 series against Ireland, and VVS Laxman was appointed as the coach for the assignment. Under his guidance, India won the series 2-0. In contrast, India later suffered a series defeat against Ireland under Gambhir's coaching.
Coached during the 2022 Asia Cup
Laxman also coached India during the 2022 Asia Cup. Under his coaching, Team India failed to reach the final of the tournament, which was played in the T20 format. At the time, head coach Rahul Dravid had tested positive for COVID-19 and was unable to travel with the team.
Secured a gold medal at the Asian Games
Laxman was also India's coach at the 2023 Asian Games held in China. Ruturaj Gaikwad captained the team. India performed brilliantly in the tournament and clinched the gold medal.
Impressive record against Zimbabwe
Laxman has previously coached the team in matches against Zimbabwe. He was entrusted with the responsibility of being the team's head coach for the 2024 tour. During that tour, India played a five-match T20 series, which also marked Abhishek Sharma's debut. The team, led by Shubman Gill, won the series 4-1.
