A vital member of the Indian team’s support staff, Patrick Farhart will no longer serve as the physiotherapist of the team after it’s World Cup semi-final defeat against the Kiwis. Part of the Indian team for the last four years, Patrick thanked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its support.
He was an integral part of the squad post his appointment in 2015. However, after India’s heartbreaking defeat to New Zealand in the semis, he decided to step down from his role.
Farhart’s most clear memory among cricket fans is him running around with his bag in case of any injury to anyone on the field. The Australian is also spotted in many videos shared by players on social media which hint at his close bond with Indian players.
Along with Farhart, Shankar Basu, Indian team’s fitness and condition coach also resigned. Although both of them were offered renewal of their contracts by the BCCI, they decided to call it quits.
Reports suggest that Indian Team Management will now look for replacements after the World Cup and West Indies series.
Patrick shared an emotional tweet when making his decision public which received messages and wishes from a lot of Indian cricketers. Indian captain Virat Kohli too shared a tweet acknowledging their contribution to the Indian team.
Whilst my last day with the team did not turn out as I wanted it to, I would like to thank @BCCI for the opportunity to work with the team for the last 4 years. My best wishes to all of the players and support staff for the future #TeamIndia
— Patrick Farhart (@patrickfarhart) July 10, 2019
Thank you Patrick and Basu for the amazing work you both have done for the team. More importantly, the friendship you have with all of us is even more special. You both are true gentlemen. Wish you the best for everything else in life ahead. 🙏🙂 @patrickfarhart
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 11, 2019