The BCCI has brought back T Dilip as the fielding coach of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming tour of England. This decision comes after the board failed to finalize a replacement in time. Dilip, who had been with the Indian team from 2021, was initially removed along with assistant coach Abhishek Nayar following India’s disappointing performance in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
However, the board reconsidered its decision. A source told PTI, “Dilip is a good coach, who served the team well for over three years (from 2021). He knows most of these cricketers very closely. So, to have him on board for a big series (vs England) will do the team only good.” The BCCI had been looking to hire a foreign coach for the fielding position but couldn’t finalize a suitable name in time.
“So, there is no point in bringing in a fresh name at this stage, and Dilip is very popular with players too,” the source added. During his earlier tenure, Dilip was known for creative initiatives such as awarding medals for the best fielder of the match and inviting cricket legends to present those awards.
Warm-Up Match Concerns for Gill and Sudharsan
New Test captain Shubman Gill and young batter B Sai Sudharsan might not play in India A’s second four-day match against England Lions, which starts on June 6. Both players are currently representing Gujarat Titans in the IPL.
If their team qualifies for the IPL final on June 3 in Ahmedabad, it would be difficult for them to travel and prepare in time for the red-ball game in England. They would need to quickly adjust to English conditions and switch formats from T20 to Test cricket. It was already planned that they would miss the first four-day India A game starting on May 30.
Coaching Staff for India A Tour
Coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar will lead the India A team. He will have support from experienced professionals, including Ryan ten Doeschate as the batting coach and Troy Cooley as the bowling coach.
This team of coaches will be responsible for guiding young players during the England tour and preparing them for future roles in the senior national team. The inclusion of both Indian and international experience in the coaching team is expected to benefit the players in adapting to English playing conditions.
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