Kevin Pietersen joins Delhi Capitals as team mentor
Former England player Kevin Pietersen has been appointed as the mentor for Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The 44-year-old, who previously played and captained for the franchise, will join a revamped coaching staff that includes Hemang Badani as head coach, Matthew Mott as assistant coach, Munaf Patel as bowling coach, and Venugopal Rao as director of cricket. The team has yet to announce its captain for the upcoming season.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the new role, Pietersen stated, “It’s an exciting opportunity to step into this new role as a mentor for the Capitals. I’m really looking forward to joining the squad, working closely with the boys, and doing everything I can to help us win that ultimate prize.”
Pietersen’s association with the Delhi franchise dates back to his playing days. He represented the team, then known as Delhi Daredevils, in the 2012 season, amassing 305 runs at a strike rate of 147, including an unbeaten 103. In 2014, he captained the side, though the team finished at the bottom of the table that year. Beyond his playing career, Pietersen has maintained a strong relationship with the franchise’s co-owners, the GMR Group, and was instrumental in facilitating a partnership between GMR and Hampshire County Cricket Club in 2024.
Reflecting on his return to the franchise, Pietersen said, “I’ve got incredible memories of representing the Delhi franchise in the IPL, and I’ve been able to maintain that passion for the team even as a broadcaster over the years. I shared the field with Venu (Venugopal Rao) during the 2012 season, and it’s great to be reconnecting with him as we begin a new chapter at this amazing franchise.”
Delhi Capitals are aiming for their maiden IPL title, having reached the final only once in the tournament’s history. The upcoming season, starting on March 21, 2025, will see the team striving to improve upon their previous performances under the guidance of their new coaching staff and mentor.
Pietersen’s extensive experience in international cricket and familiarity with the IPL are expected to be valuable assets for Delhi Capitals as they prepare for the 2025 season. His leadership and mentorship will be crucial in developing the team’s strategy and performance in their quest for the championship.
