Delhi Capitals have announced the appointment of former England captain Kevin Pietersen as their team mentor for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. The 44-year-old joins an overhauled backroom staff that includes Hemang Badani as head coach, Matthew Mott as assistant coach, Munaf Patel as bowling coach, and Venugopal Rao as director of cricket.
This will be Pietersen’s first coaching assignment in the IPL, having last played in the tournament in 2016. The franchise made the announcement via its official app but has yet to confirm a captain for the new season.
Kevin Pietersen’s IPL Journey Comes Full Circle
Pietersen is no stranger to the Delhi franchise, having captained them in the 2014 season when they were known as the Delhi Daredevils. However, that campaign was a forgettable one, with the team finishing at the bottom of the table with just two wins in 14 matches. Before that, he briefly led Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2009.
Reflecting on his new role, Pietersen said:
“I have great memories of playing for Delhi in the IPL, and it’s fantastic to return in a different capacity. This is a team with huge potential, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the players and the coaching staff to help push for that elusive title.”
A Strong Connection with Delhi’s Ownership
Pietersen’s return to Delhi Capitals is not entirely surprising, given his long-standing association with the GMR Group, co-owners of the franchise. In 2024, he played a key role in securing a landmark partnership between GMR and Hampshire County Cricket Club. His ties with the ownership have remained strong over the years, making this appointment a natural fit.
Delhi Capitals’ Squad Overhaul for IPL 2025
DC, who finished sixth in IPL 2024, made bold moves in the auction, entering with the largest purse among all franchises after releasing several senior players, including former captain Rishabh Pant. They have since strengthened their squad with marquee signings like KL Rahul, Harry Brook, Faf du Plessis, and Mitchell Starc.
Chasing the Elusive IPL Trophy
Despite being one of the most consistent teams in recent years, Delhi Capitals have reached the IPL final only once—in 2020—where they fell short of the title. With a revamped coaching setup and an experienced mentor in Pietersen, the team will be aiming to finally break their trophy drought.
Their IPL 2025 campaign kicks off on March 24, with a blockbuster opening match against Lucknow Super Giants, where they could face their former captain, Rishabh Pant.
Also read, DC IPL 2025 Fixtures: Match List, Venues, Timings & Squad Updates
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