T Dilip Back as India’s Fielding Coach After Rohit Sharma’s Push

T Dilip, the Hyderabad-based fielding coach, is set to return to the India Men’s cricket team setup after being offered a one-year temporary extension, as reported by IGK. Dilip, who previously worked under Rahul Dravid and for nearly a year under Gautam Gambhir, will join the Indian team for their upcoming tour of England next month.

Initially, Dilip’s contract, which ended in May 2025, was not expected to be renewed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A BCCI official had informed Dilip, batting coach Abhishek Nayar, and other support staff members that their services would no longer be required post-contract expiry. This decision aligned with head coach Gautam Gambhir’s preference for a leaner support staff, leading to the release of Dilip, Nayar, and others, many of whom were known to be close to former Test captain Rohit Sharma.

However, Rohit Sharma, despite retiring from Test cricket, played a pivotal role in reversing Dilip’s exit. Sources confirm that Rohit personally urged both the BCCI and Gambhir to retain Dilip as fielding coach. While Nayar opted to step down and join Kolkata Knight Riders, Dilip’s reinstatement was secured. Ryan ten Doeschate, initially slated to replace Dilip, will continue as an assistant coach.

Meanwhile, preparations for the England tour are underway. The India A team, along with select members of the Test squad, has arrived in Kent, with pacer Akash Deep expected to join soon. The India A squad will face England Lions in an unofficial Test from May 30 to June 2 in Canterbury, while the main Indian Test team is scheduled to depart from Mumbai on June 6.

Dilip’s return highlights Rohit Sharma’s lingering influence and the BCCI’s willingness to balance continuity with Gambhir’s vision for the team’s future.

                                               

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