BCCI’s Centre of Excellence head VVS Laxman has reportedly approached legends Harbhajan Singh and Zaheer Khan for specialised pre-IPL camps in Bengaluru. Get the full details here.
BCCI Approaches Harbhajan Singh and Zaheer Khan for ‘Specialised’ Pre-IPL Role (Image Source: X)
It has been reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) contacted past cricket greats through the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru to run deep, dive skill clinics. Instead of just sending invites, VVS Laxman, who leads cricket operations there, spoke directly to ex-teammates Harbhajan Singh and Zaheer Khan, asking them to guide focused trainees before IPL heats up.
While some might expect generic advice, these sessions are built around real match pressures faced by young players now stepping into junior national squads, first-class circuits or India A tours. Because seasoned pros know what raw talent misses, their role is shaping instinct, not just technique.
A big step up in skill training sees VVS Laxman bringing India's top bowlers into the fold at the Centre of Excellence. On-site in Bengaluru, Zaheer Khan runs a tight five-day session for fast bowlers close to earning national selection. Instead of waiting, plans have sparked for Harbhajan Singh to guide an exclusive group focused only on off-spin talent. The former star is now fitting the workshop into his calendar just before IPL duties begin.
Instead of a long-term role, this focused method works through brief yet powerful sessions. Carefully picked by the BCCI, the group of specific athletes highlights performers who've stood out in local competitions. With icons passing down real game insights and subtle skills, there's an aim to sharpen these talents, so they step into their IPL teams fully prepared.
The plan isn’t stopping with Harbhajan and Zaheer. Word is, Anil Kumble has been asked to run a special camp for wrist-spinners too. It’s great to see things coming full circle, with cricket legends who’ve played over 100 Tests stepping in to guide the next generation. Honestly, it feels a lot like the old days when guys like Chandu Borde and Erapalli Prasanna mentored young talent at the Zonal Cricket Academies.
