Is Adrian Le Roux Joining the India Men's Cricket Team as Strength and Conditioning Coach?

New Delhi, June 5 (NationPress) Adrian Le Roux has revealed that he will be stepping into the role of strength and conditioning coach for the India men's cricket team, following the conclusion of his time with the Punjab Kings, who ended as the runners-up in IPL 2025.

This marks Le Roux's second tenure with the Indian squad, having previously served as their strength and conditioning coach from January 2002 to May 2003. He now takes over a position that was recently vacated by Soham Desai.

“And with that, a 6-year journey with the @punjabkingsipl comes to an end. We made it to the final this season but fell just short, and yes, that really hurt. However, I am incredibly proud of the team, our preparations, our gameplay, and our fight till the very end.

“What a journey it’s been! To the team, owners, management, coaches, players, and my colleagues in the sports science and medical team, a huge thank you! In the fast-paced world of professional sports, it’s easy to get lost in the results.”

“But every now and then, you pause and realize that while it’s about performance and pressure, it’s also about people, shared moments, and friendships that will endure a lifetime. As I step into my new role with the @indiancricketteam, I will carry these memories with me.

“I’ve had the privilege to work with some remarkable individuals and some of the most talented cricketers in the game. The Punjab Kings are in a good place and under capable hands, which makes me happy. Until we meet again,” Le Roux stated on his Instagram account on Thursday.

Le Roux, a qualified sports scientist hailing from Cape Town, is well-respected in the industry. He served as the strength and conditioning coach for the South Africa men's team from June 2003 to August 2007, in addition to leading strength and conditioning initiatives within Cricket South Africa from May 2018 to June 2024.

Besides his six years with the Punjab Kings, Le Roux held the position of strength and conditioning coach with the Kolkata Knight Riders from January 2008 to December 2019, during which the team secured IPL trophies in 2012 and 2014 under the leadership of the current India head coach, Gautam Gambhir.

Le Roux’s first task upon rejoining the Indian team will be the upcoming five-match Test series in England, starting on June 20 in Leeds. The Shubman Gill-led side will compete in Tests at Edgbaston, Lord's, and Old Trafford, concluding the series at The Oval.

India aims to secure a Test series victory in England for the first time since 2007. This series, which runs until August 4, also marks the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle for India under Gill’s leadership.