# BCCI Centre of Excellence injury and staffing concerns > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bcci-centre-of-excellence-injury-and-staffing-concerns > Updated: 2026-08-11T02:52:27.000Z. Sources: 28. Developments: 2. The BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru is facing scrutiny regarding player injury management and specialized staffing. VVS Laxman, head of the CoE, has defended the facility against a surge in injuries among key Indian cricketers, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, stating that injuries are “part and parcel of any player’s career.” While the CoE aims to function as a high-performance hub integrating sports science, nutrition, and biomechanics, it has struggled to fill the critical role of Head of Sports Science and Medicine. Reports indicate that the position has remained vacant since early 2025, with several shortlisted candidates reportedly withdrawing from the recruitment process. Concerns have been raised by former players and CoE sources regarding the impact of IPL financial and franchise pressures on player recovery. Critics have called for improved injury prevention and expert oversight as several prominent players face fitness issues ahead of upcoming international series. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-11: BCCI Centre of Excellence aims to transform Indian cricket development The BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru aims to modernize player development through sports science, but faces staffing challenges and criticism over managing player injuries. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bcci-centre-of-excellence-aims-to-transform-indian-cricket-development ### 2026-08-08: VVS Laxman defends BCCI Centre of Excellence amid player injury crisis BCCI's VVS Laxman defends the Centre of Excellence against scrutiny following a wave of injuries to key Indian cricketers, emphasizing its role in excellence and transparency in fitness reporting. 26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bcci-secretary-saikia-to-meet-vvs-laxman-regarding-player-injuries --- Cite as: BCCI Centre of Excellence injury and staffing concerns. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bcci-centre-of-excellence-injury-and-staffing-concerns