Sourav Ganguly named Delhi Capitals head coach ahead of IPL 2027

Preparations for IPL 2027 have begun, and Delhi Capitals have appointed Sourav Ganguly as their head coach. The move is a major change for the team ahead of the tournament. Ganguly replaces Hemang Badani.

Veterans such as Ricky Ponting have also coached the team in the past. Even so, Delhi have yet to win an IPL title, and the team is still waiting for its first.

Taking up the new responsibility, Ganguly said he would try to build a fearless team. As India captain, Ganguly had built a fearless side that began a run of victories overseas.

Excited about his new role, Ganguly said, "I am eager to take on the role of head coach in the IPL. Delhi Capitals is a franchise very close to my heart, and I have a deep, long-standing association with it. I have worked closely with the owners, the management, the support staff and the players, so this is an exciting responsibility for me. We have a talented group and we have played good cricket recently. I am eager to work with the team for the new season and to build a strong and fearless side."

For IPL 2027, all franchises must submit their lists of retained players by November 15. Several teams have already made big changes to their coaching staff. Chennai Super Kings are one of them, having appointed Zaheer Khan as coach.

Delhi Capitals have handed the responsibility to Ganguly. He has a month to make the changes needed to build a new team. A change of captain is also said to be possible, with Rishabh Pant likely to replace Axar Patel.

Pant joined the Delhi side through a trade. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav will now be part of the Lucknow team. Pant's fee has, however, been reduced. Lucknow had bought him for Rs 27 crore, while Delhi brought him in through the transfer window on a salary of Rs 15 crore.

Playing for Delhi, Pant made his mark in the IPL and earned a place in the Indian team. He then also secured his place in the Test side.