Ex India's former captain Sourav Ganguly is the new head coach of Delhi Capitals for the 2027 Indian Premier League.
The franchise formally announced the appointment on October 6, 2026 and ended speculation over its new coaching setup. Ganguly is replacing Hemang Badani, Delhi Capitals' head coach during the last two IPL seasons.
Ganguly is a new chapter in Ganguly’s career, who has been a leader of Delhi Capitals for a long time but has never been the head coach of an IPL team.
Ganguly's long association with Delhi Capitals
Ganguly's relationship with Delhi Capitals dates back to 2019, when he joined the franchise as Advisor.
He later returned to the organisation and took on the Director of Cricket role, running the cricket of the franchise (men’s IPL team and women’s team).
His familiarity with the franchise’s management, players and support staff was demonstrated when he was hired.
Ganguly said Delhi Capitals is a franchise that is very close to his heart and so he hopes to build a strong and fearless team for the upcoming season.
First head coaching assignment in IPL.
Although Ganguly has excellent cricket experience, the Delhi Capitals role is his first time as head coach of an IPL franchise.
He has, however, already gained coaching experience outside the IPL. Ganguly was involved with Pretoria Capitals in the SA20, adding another dimension to his transition into coaching.
His cricketing leadership experience will be one of the key factors as Delhi Capitals gears up for another IPL campaign.
Dilli, it's time for Dadagiri 🐅 Sourav Ganguly, Head Coach of the Tigers 🔥 https://t.co/EMTPQ9TB64
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 6, 2026
Hemang Badani's Two-Year Stint Ends
Ganguly takes over from Hemang Badani, who was appointed Delhi Capitals head coach ahead of the 2025 season.
Delhi Capitals also pulled out of their previous coaching group on October 5, one day before Ganguly was appointed as the new head coach. The team is preparing for a new coaching structure ahead of the IPL 2027.
Delhi Capitals were sixth in IPL 2026 and remain in search of their first IPL championship.
What Ganguly's appointment means for IPL 2027?
The appointment brings in Delhi Capitals a coach who knows Indian cricket and the franchise well and how to understand it.
Ganguly’s leadership credentials as a former India Captain and his administrative and franchise experience could provide a different approach for the Capitals as they prepare for the next IPL season.
Now the focus will turn to the formation of coaching staff, preparation of the team for the auction and building a team that will be able to contend for the IPL title.
