The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is on the verge of experiencing a significant challenge. According to Cricbuzz, Nitin Patel, the head of the Sports Science division, is planning to step down from his role at the newly established National Cricket Academy (NCA).
This development is a major setback, as Patel has played a pivotal role in managing injuries and workloads as well as in rehabilitating cricketers at both international and domestic levels. Reports indicate that Patel is currently serving his notice period and intends to leave the NCA by the month’s end.
To find Patel’s replacement, the BCCI is expected to announce a job posting soon. Joining the NCA’s Centre of Excellence in April 2022, Patel has significantly contributed to managing the workloads and rehabilitating top-tier cricketers.
During his time, Patel worked closely with players such as Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul. He also oversaw the recovery of Mohammed Shami, who returned to the game during England’s series. Currently, Patel is engaged in efforts to bring Bumrah back to action, following his absence since January.
Initially appointed to head the newly formed Sports Science wing, Patel, alongside former BCCI secretary Jay Shah, played a crucial role in establishing a high-performance center to address injuries last September amid a wave of health issues.
The BCCI has expressed satisfaction with the work carried out by the Sports Science division under Patel’s leadership. Notably, they successfully prepared Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah for the ICC World Cup 2023. Both players, after undergoing timely surgeries in New Zealand and England, were fit and instrumental in helping India reach the finals.
While the reasons behind Patel’s departure remain unclear, it’s been reported that he has submitted his resignation. Throughout his tenure, the NCA maintained effective collaboration with the Indian cricket team and former head coach Rahul Dravid, ensuring optimal recovery plans and speedy player comebacks.
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