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T Dilip Reinstated as India’s Fielding Coach Ahead of England Tour with One-Year Extension
BCCI Hands Temporary Extension to T Dilip Amid Rohit Sharma’s Influence
T Dilip is set to return to the Indian men’s national cricket team as fielding coach after being handed a one-year temporary extension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The Hyderabad-based coach will rejoin the side ahead of their upcoming England tour in June 2025.
This decision comes as a surprise to many, especially after reports earlier suggested that his contract, which expired in May, would not be renewed. Several coaching staff members, including Dilip and batting coach Abhishek Nayar, were reportedly informed that their services would no longer be required. The development marks a dramatic turnaround, as Dilip now finds himself back in the Indian setup amid a critical transition phase for the team.
Rohit Sharma’s Request Plays Crucial Role in Dilip’s Retention
Dilip Replaces Expected Successor Ryan ten Doeschate
While Gautam Gambhir, tipped to assume a more hands-on role in the coaching structure, initially favored a leaner support staff, senior players, particularly Rohit Sharma, seem to have swayed the board’s final decision. According to team insiders, Rohit personally requested both the BCCI and Gambhir to reconsider Dilip’s exit and retain him for the upcoming challenges, especially in the lead-up to the 2025 ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Despite having stepped down from Test cricket, Rohit’s voice within the team setup remains influential. Ryan ten Doeschate, who was previously expected to replace Dilip, will now continue as an assistant coach, thereby retaining the structure while allowing room for experienced staff continuity.
Explore India’s past fielding performance under T Dilip here.
Transition in Coaching Staff: Nayar Exits, Dilip Returns
Nayar Joins KKR Setup; Dilip Continues Under Gambhir
Abhishek Nayar, another key figure from the support staff and a close associate of Rohit Sharma, has opted to step down and resume his responsibilities with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). His departure aligns with Gambhir’s vision of a trimmed coaching team, prioritizing adaptability and efficiency.
However, Dilip’s experience and his rapport with both players and management appear to have tipped the scales in his favor. Known for his dynamic fielding drills and consistent results, his return ensures a degree of continuity during a period of strategic transformation for Indian cricket.
India A Team Arrives in England; Main Squad to Depart Soon
As preparations for the England tour gather momentum, the India A squad, along with a few senior Test players, has already landed in Kent. All players except Akash Deep have checked into the team hotel, with Deep expected to join shortly. The first unofficial Test between India A and England Lions is scheduled to begin on May 30 at Canterbury.
Meanwhile, the main Indian Test squad is set to fly out from Mumbai on June 6, kicking off their international season with high expectations.
Full squad details and schedule can be found on the official BCCI website.
What This Means for Team India’s Fielding Standards
T Dilip’s reinstatement could significantly boost India’s fielding benchmarks. Under his previous tenure, the Men in Blue were frequently praised for their sharp outfield tactics, direct hits, and improved catching percentage. As India gears up for crucial assignments in England and beyond, Dilip’s guidance will be pivotal in maintaining top-tier fielding standards.
