Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) has appointed Rajiv Kumar as the new mentor of the Ranji side for the 2015-16 season.

A former Bihar Ranji skipper, Kumar replaced V. Venkat Ram, also a former Bihar Ranji captain.

The Telegraph had reported, "Ranji team to get new coach", in its July 7 edition that Kumar's name was being considered for the job.

Confirming the appointment, JSCA secretary Rajesh Verma said Kumar was expected to execute plans necessary to improve the team's performance in the ensuing season. "Kumar was instrumental in grooming young talents during his stint as the mentor of Jharkhand Under-19 side last season. Players like Virat Singh, Ishan Kishan, Sumit Kumar and Kaushal Kumar Singh have benefited under his guidance. He is an experienced mentor and is expected to delivery results," he added.

Another JSCA official said that Jharkhand did not perform satisfactorily in the Ranji Trophy in the past few seasons and Kumar's appointment was a step taken in the right direction to improve the show. "Kumar will have the support of senior players like Varun Aaron and Saurabh Tiwary," he added.

Asked what role would Venkat play, the JSCA secretary said he could be given an assignment at the proposed zonal cricket academy in Ranchi but did not specify his future job.

A stylist right-handed batsman in his heydays, Kumar was once considered for the Indian team. However, he did not make the cut. He also has the experience of playing County cricket in England. A well-known personality in Jharkhand and Bihar cricketing circles, Kumar originally hails from Patna.