There are some big changes happening in Indian cricket, especially with the coaching staff. Reports have surfaced that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to part ways with assistant coach Abhishek Nayar. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia mentioned that they’re in the process of making some adjustments but didn’t spill the beans on specifics just yet.
According to various media sources, it seems Nayar’s contract got cut not long after he took up the role. Just eight months to be exact. It’s not just him, though; fielding coach T Dilip and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai have also been let go. Saikia said to expect an official press release from the BCCI in the coming days, offering some clarity.
While there are no new faces lined up to take over just yet, it’s been confirmed that Nayar, Dilip, and Soham were informed about the changes last week. A source told The Indian Express that right now, the board isn’t looking to bring anybody else in.
Nayar stepped into the assistant coach spot back in July last year, but it seems the BCCI started looking for a shake-up after a tough tour in Australia, where the Indian team lost a five-match Test series 1-3. During a review meeting that followed, several key figures were present, including Indian Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and, of course, Saikia.
Before joining the national setup, Nayar worked with Gambhir at the Kolkata Knight Riders, where they celebrated an IPL victory in 2024. He also has a bit of international experience himself, having played in three ODIs for India back in 2009. Earlier this year, the BCCI appointed Sitanshu Kotak as the batting coach for the home series against England, which some sources suggest was a way to sort of ease out Nayar, especially with the Champions Trophy around the corner.
Interestingly, it’s been noted that Nayar might not have been the top pick for Gambhir’s team. He was brought on board primarily to help bridge the gap between Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma. Coming up next for the Indian team is a crucial five-match Test series against England in June, which will be an important test for whoever steps into these coaching roles.
