Vinay Kumar Takes Charge as Head Coach of Karnataka Men's Cricket Team for 2026-27 Season

Vinay Kumar has been appointed as the head coach of the Karnataka senior men's cricket team for the 2026-27 domestic season, as announced by the Karnataka State Cricket Association. This decision follows recommendations from the Cricket Advisory Committee. Kumar, a record-holder in the Ranji Trophy, has a rich history of leadership and success in cricket. The coaching staff for both men's and women's teams has also been finalized, ensuring a robust structure for the upcoming season. Key appointments include Deepak Chougule as fielding coach for the men's team and S N Ameet for the women's teams. This comprehensive coaching lineup aims to enhance Karnataka's performance in domestic cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 13, 2026, 22:12 IST

Vinay Kumar's New Role

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has officially announced the appointment of former Indian fast bowler Vinay Kumar as the head coach for the Karnataka senior men's cricket team for the upcoming 2026-27 domestic season.

Coaching Appointments Overview

The selection of coaches for both the men's and women's teams in Karnataka for the 2026-27 season was made following the recommendations from the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).

Vinay Kumar's Achievements

Vinay Kumar holds the record as the highest wicket-taker among seam bowlers in Ranji Trophy history, with a remarkable total of 442 wickets. He made his international debut for India and led Karnataka to significant victories, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Ranji Trophy, and Irani Cup from 2013 to 2015. His international career includes one Test match and 31 One Day Internationals (ODIs). Additionally, he was part of the IPL-winning teams with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 and Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2017.

Coaching Staff for Men's Team

Deepak Chougule, a former Karnataka batter, has been appointed as the fielding coach for the senior men's team.

Women's Teams Coaching Staff

S N Ameet has been designated as the head coach for both the senior women's and Under-23 women's teams, while Rakshitha Krishnappa will take on the role of fielding coach for the senior women's team.

Men's Age-Group Teams Coaching Structure

For the men's age-group teams, Ganesh Satish will serve as the head coach for the Under-23 team, with Rajshekar Shanbal as the fielding coach. Kunal Kapoor will lead the Under-19 team, supported by bowling coach Raajoo Bhatkal. Adithya B Sagar has been appointed head coach of the Under-16 men's team, with C B Karthik as the assistant coach. M Guruprasad will coach the Under-14 men's team, assisted by K V Bharat.

Women's Age-Group Teams Coaching Appointments

In the women's age-group teams, Mukunda G has been appointed as the head coach for the Under-19 team, with Roopa B N as the assistant coach. M Guruprasad will also take charge of the Under-15 women's team, with Chandu V assisting him. Ameet will continue as head coach for the Under-23 women's team, with Srivalli appointed as the fielding coach.

Complete Coaching Structure

These appointments finalize the coaching framework for Karnataka's senior and age-group men's and women's teams ahead of the forthcoming domestic season.