Amidst growing concerns over recurring injuries among Indian cricketers, VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), has clarified that the state-of-the-art facility is not a rehabilitation centre but instead strives for daily excellence. During a media interaction at the CoE in Bengaluru, Laxman also refuted allegations of miscommunication between the team management, selectors, and CoE staff. He emphasized that there is excellent coordination between the CoE, team management, SSM (sports science and medicine) staff, and selection committee, with regular updates being provided on players' fitness status. The case of Jasprit Bumrah and Sai Sudharsan, who have been ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka due to injuries, was clarified as well. Both were named in the squad subject to fitness clearance, with their progress being closely monitored and updates communicated to the selection committee and head coaches. The CoE's post of Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM) has been vacant since Nitin Patel left the role in March 2025. Laxman stated that a suitable candidate for the key position has yet to be found, with former India team physiotherapist Andrew Leipus having initially been approached but ultimately backing out due to family reasons. In the meantime, senior physiotherapist Dhananjay Kaushik has been overseeing the SSM department since Patel's departure. Another issue facing the CoE is that matches are played behind closed doors, as the facility is designated as a training centre under Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) rules and cannot have galleries erected. This has proved challenging, with spectators often seen perched on trees or standing along the expansive compound wall, particularly when international stars are in action. The domestic season opener, the Duleep Trophy, is set to begin at the CoE soon.