BCCI removes Team India masseur Rajeev Kumar after the England tour, ending a decade-long support staff journey.

Sports News:  The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) terminated the services of Team India's masseur, Rajeev Kumar, after the England tour. Rajeev, who was an important part of the players' fitness and recovery for almost ten years, was considered a trusted member of the support staff. He was constantly associated with the players not only during the match but also during practice sessions and the off-season.

A decade of contributions

Let us tell you that Rajiv Kumar joined the national team in 2016. At that time, the BCCI gave him a chance by removing popular masseur Ramesh Mane. Ramesh Mane was also known by the players as Mane Kaka. Since then, Rajiv has been continuously with Team India.

During this time, he first became a part of Ravi Shastri's and then Rahul Dravid's coaching team. Recalling his tenure, Rajiv wrote on Instagram, "It is an honor and privilege for me to serve the Indian cricket team for a decade (2016-2025). I am thankful to God for this opportunity and am now excited to move forward."

Frequent changes in support staff

BCCI has been making changes in the support staff from time to time. Rajeev's removal is another link in this chain. Earlier, Abhishek Nair was removed from the role of assistant coach, while Adrian Le Roux was included in place of strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai. Such changes are part of the board's strategy, through which it wants to provide a better support system to the players.

Popularity among players

Rajiv's relationship with the players was not limited to just professional. He helped create a trusting and positive atmosphere in the dressing room. His support during long tours and tiring matches was invaluable for the players. This is why many players of Team India considered him a part of the family.

Now eyes on the Asia Cup

Team India will now focus on preparations for the next big tournament with a new support staff. India will leave for Dubai on September 4, where the Asia Cup will begin on September 10. The Indian team led by Suryakumar Yadav will play its first match against the host, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). India has been placed in Group A, which includes UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, which is playing for the first time. This tournament holds special significance for India, as it will be the first T20 International event after the series against England.