Cricket is often celebrated as a sport of eleven players on the field, but behind every victory lies a dedicated support system working tirelessly behind the scenes. Coaches, physiotherapists, trainers, and masseurs form the backbone of a cricket team, ensuring players remain fit, focused, and ready for the rigours of international cricket.

Among these unsung heroes, Rajiv Kumar stood out for nearly a decade, quietly shaping Team India’s success before recently parting ways with the national side. Rajiv Kumar served as India’s massage therapist for nine years, working closely with some of the team’s biggest stars. From World Cups to Asia Cups and Champions Trophy campaigns, he was a constant presence in the dressing room.

Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, and Hardik Pandya often relied on his expertise to recover from fatigue, soreness, and the physical toll of elite cricket. His hands became as crucial as any tactical discussion, helping the team maintain peak performance.

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On the field, Kumar’s presence was quietly reassuring. Seen along boundary ropes during matches with his trademark warm smile, he not only provided massages but also prepared energy drinks, ensured proper hydration, and supported fielders by retrieving balls, allowing players to remain sharp and maintain higher over-rates. His contribution extended beyond physical recovery, fostering morale and camaraderie among the squad.

Thank You, Rajeev Kumar. 🇮🇳

– 9 years with Indian Team as masseur, the favourite for all Indian Cricketers over a decade in the Dressing room. pic.twitter.com/Vq0ICtqCeS

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 25, 2025

Kumar shared a particularly close bond with India’s fast bowlers. In 2019, he celebrated consecutive birthdays with Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma, a testament to the personal connections he built alongside professional care. Shami and Ishant frequently highlighted the friendship and trust they shared with him.

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His departure comes amid wider changes in Team India’s backroom staff. Recent exits include assistant coach Abhishek Nair, masseur Arun Kanade, and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai, while fielding coach T Dilip briefly left before contract renewal.

Though Rajiv Kumar may not have been a household name, his impact on Indian cricket cannot be overstated. For players and fans alike, he was an indispensable figure behind the scenes, the silent force helping champions perform at their best, match after match.