Another member of Team India's support staff exits ahead of T20 Asia Cup 2025, writes emotional post on social media

“It has been a privilege and honour to serve the Indian cricket team for a decade (2006–2015). Thank you, God, for the opportunity, truly grateful and looking forward!” he wrote in an emotional message on Instagram with 'See You Again' as background song.

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Rajeev was part of India’s men’s team support staff for nearly a decade and worked under head coaches Anil Kumble, Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid and currently Gautam Gambhir. 

Rajeev Kumar joins the long list of members of the coaching staff who have parted ways with Team India. Others are strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai, masseur Arun Kanade, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar. Also, fielding coach T Dilip left the team briefly before he was roped back in.

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The person players turned to in time of need

Rajeev was someone who players looked towards when they had stiff muscle issues. He would not just provide massage therapy, but prepared energy drinks, protein shakes to keep the players up and running. 

He played a big role in keeping the fast bowlers fit. He saw rise of Indian fast bowlers under Virat Kohli’s leadership, especially in Test cricket. 

He was a part of India’s T20 World Cup 2024 and ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumphs. He was often seen in birthday posts of Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also labelled him among "unsung heroes" of Indian cricket.