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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ended the services of Team India’s Massage Rajiv Kumar after the tour of England. Rajiv, who was an important part of the players’ fitness and recovery for almost ten years, was considered a trusted member of the allied staff. He was constantly associated with the players not only during the match, but also during the practice session and off season.

Contribution of a decade

Let us tell you that Rajiv Kumar was associated with the national team in 2016. At that time, the BCCI removed the popular massage Ramesh Mane and gave him a chance. Ramesh Mane was also known by the players Mane Kaka. After this, Rajiv has been constantly with Team India. During this time he became part of Ravi Shastri and then Rahul Dravid’s coaching team. Recalling his tenure, Rajiv wrote on Instagram, “It is a matter of honor and good fortune for me to serve the Indian cricket team by a decade (2016-2025). I am thankful to God for this occasion and now excited about moving forward.”

Constant changes in allied staff

The BCCI has been making changes in the collaborative staff from time to time. Rajiv’s shrink is another link of this link. Earlier, Abhishek Nair was removed from the role of an assistant coach, while Adrian Le Rock was replaced by Strength and Conditioning Coach Soham Desai. Such changes are part of the board’s strategy through which it wants to provide better support system to the players.

Popularity among players

Rajiv’s relationship with players was not limited to professional only. He used to help create a reliable and positive atmosphere in the dressing room. His cooperation between long tour and tiring matches was invaluable for the players. This is the reason that many players of Team India considered him a part of the family.

Now look at Asia Cup

Team India will now focus on the preparations for the next big tournament with the new associate staff. India will leave for Dubai on 4 September, where the Asia Cup will begin from 10 September. The Indian team led by Suryakumar Yadav will play their first match against the host United Arab Emirates (UAE). India has been kept in Group A, including Pakistan and Oman coming for the first time besides UAE. This tournament holds special significance for India, as this will be the first T20 International event after the series against England.