2 years of the pandemic were difficult and with players opening up on mental exhaustion and mental health issues, it is only fair that they are provided with the right assistance. Hence, to help players out, BCCI has appointed Paddy Upton to join Team India as a mental conditioning coach.
Earlier in 2011, Paddy was a part of the world cup winning coaching staff alongside Grey Kristen. Upton and Kirsten then joined the South African team that later rose to the position of No. 1 Test team in 2013.
In IPL, Dravid and Upton have worked together as the head coach and mentor of the Delhi Daredevils and Rajasthan Royals. Interestingly, he has already joined the Indian squad in West Indies.
“My relationship with Indian cricket started 14 years ago when I worked alongside Gary Kirsten, who was appointed head coach of the Indian team at the time.
One World Cup win, a world No. 1 Test position, eight IPL coaching stints, and three IPL playoffs later, I’m happy to have the privilege of being back in the saddle with the Indian team.
And this time, I feel particularly fortunate to be supporting current Head Coach Rahul Dravid, who I’ve worked with in a number of different teams and roles over the past 14 years”, said Paddy through a social media post.
Paddy Upton joins the team in West Indies
“Paddy will be joining the team in West Indies as a mental conditioning coach and will be there till the T20 World Cup,” said a BCCI official.
The use of mental coaching in sports has increased, and Upton has stated in prior conversations that he helps players get over fears about selection and stop thinking too much when they wait in between games at a major championship.
Paddy Upton’s selection is a great decision by the BCCI as team India looks forward to playing in the T20 World Cup held in Australia this year in October-November. Before they start their World Cup journey, India has a busy schedule ahead of them. Therefore, making it necessary to provide players with an efficient environment and the best facilities.
