The Board of Control for Cricket in India is reportedly set to strengthen its coaching setup at the Centre of Excellence (CoE), with former India pacers VRV Singh and Lakshmipathy Balaji likely to join in key fast-bowling roles after the conclusion of IPL 2026. The CoE has been without a full-time fast bowling coach since the departure of former Australian pacer Troy Cooley last year after he reached the retirement age limit.

Since then, the BCCI has been exploring multiple options to revamp its coaching structure and strengthen player development pathways. According to reports, the board had also held advanced discussions with England fast-bowling specialist Steffan Jones regarding a possible role at the Centre of Excellence. However, the current status of those talks remains unclear.

The latest developments suggest the BCCI is now leaning towards experienced Indian coaches for several important positions. VRV Singh, who previously worked closely with Cooley, is expected to take up a prominent role alongside Balaji once the IPL 2026 season concludes on May 31.

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Former Jammu and Kashmir bowling coach P. Krishnakumar is also among the leading candidates for a fast-bowling role. He earned widespread praise after helping Jammu and Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title this season. His work with emerging bowlers like Auqib Nabi, Sunil Kumar, and Yudhvir Singh has been highly appreciated within domestic cricket circles.

VRV Singh, Lakshmipathy Balaji set to join #BCCI CoE as bowling coacheshttps://t.co/pTSRHdJmET

— News9 (@News9Tweets) May 13, 2026

Meanwhile, former Karnataka all-rounder Yere Goud is reportedly in line for a batting coach role at the CoE. The BCCI is also considering experienced women’s cricket figures, including Nooshin Al Khadeer and VR Vanitha, for coaching responsibilities.

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For fielding coach positions, former Kolkata Knight Riders fielding coach Dishant Yagnik is understood to be on the shortlist. Milap Mewada and Shabarish Mohan are also reportedly under consideration. The BCCI is expected to complete the remaining appointments and formalities soon as it looks to build a stronger long-term coaching and development system at the Centre of Excellence.