The Indian cricket team's tour to Australia earlier this year was a disaster. It lost 1-3 the Test series and in general looked feckless.
Stung by those spirit-sapping losses, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ordered a comprehensive review of the team's performance. And as per media reports, the review process seems to have suggested replacing assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, fielding coach T Dilip, and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai.
They have been relieved of their duties ahead of India's upcoming tour to England later this year, reports claim.
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Nayar, who joined the team eight months ago, was initially appointed to bridge communication between head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma. Dilip and Desai have been part of the team for over three years now and those who have been part of the team for over three years have been sent a notice saying that any support staff who have been with the side for over three years are to be removed from service.
Sitanshu Kotak, the former Saurashtra batter, who is already part of the supporting staff is likely to be the new batting coach.
Dilip, who gained popularity for his innovative fielding medal ceremonies, is likely replaced by Ryan ten Doeschate, who will oversee fielding responsibilities during the England tour. The Dutch is already part of the set up as one of the assistant coaches.
Soham Desai, who was the strength and conditioning coach for over three years, will make way for Adrian Le Roux. The South African sports scientist, known for his contributions to Indian cricket during the early 2000s, is expected to rejoin the team after completing his IPL duties with Punjab Kings. These are, of course, based on media reports, and the official word from the BCCI is awaited.
The Indian team will begin preparations for the England tour, which begins in June, after the conclusion of IPL 2025. The revamped support staff, led by Gautam Gambhir, will have its task cut out.
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