A significant shake-up has taken place within the Indian men’s cricket team’s support staff following the team’s disappointing Test series loss in Australia earlier this year. The defeat not only ended India’s decade-long hold over the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also cost them a place in the World Test Championship final, prompting the BCCI to initiate some major changes behind the scenes.
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has been relieved of his duties just eight months into his tenure. Although the BCCI is yet to officially announce the decision, reports suggest that the board has already informed those affected, and a formal announcement could be made soon, especially with the Indian team set to travel to England for a crucial five-Test series in June.
WATCH – Riyan Parag’s Bat Under Scrutiny: Umpires Halt Play for Gauge Test in IPL 2025
The overhaul reportedly extends beyond Nayar. Fielding coach T Dilip—popular for introducing the fielding medal concept—and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai, who completed three years with the team, have also been let go. The BCCI has reportedly issued a directive that support staff serving for more than three years may be rotated out.
Following India’s crushing defeat in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, the BCCI has axed key support staff.
Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, fielding coach T. Dilip, and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai have all been sacked. A team masseur was also… pic.twitter.com/x8cj0Kwub0
— Mid Day (@mid_day) April 17, 2025
While Sitanshu Kotak remains part of the coaching group, South African-born Ryan ten Doeschate will also continue his role with the team. Replacing Desai as trainer will be Adrian le Roux, a seasoned sports scientist currently with Punjab Kings in the IPL. Le Roux, who previously worked with the Indian team in the early 2000s and has been with KKR as well, is expected to join after the 2025 IPL concludes. His deal with the BCCI is said to be finalised.
“Nayar, Dilip, and Soham have been informed about the decision last week. As of now, no new appointments are expected,” a BCCI source told The Indian Express.
ALSO READ: Match 33 (MI vs SRH) – 3 Player Battles To Watch Out For
India’s latest tour of Australia began promisingly with a commanding win in Perth. However, their campaign unraveled swiftly—defeats in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney ended the series 3-1 in Australia’s favor. With India’s away Test woes resurfacing, the BCCI is clearly looking for a fresh approach ahead of a crucial English summer.
