Major Changes in Delhi Cricket Ahead of 2026-27 Domestic Season
Transformations in Delhi Cricket Structure
Significant changes have been announced in Delhi cricket as the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) prepares for the 2026-27 domestic season. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Vijay Dahiya has been appointed as the head coach of the senior men's team. Additionally, Rajkumar Sharma, who is renowned for coaching Indian cricketer Virat Kohli during his formative years, has been designated as the state mentor.
Rajkumar Sharma Takes on a Key Role
Rajkumar Sharma has been a long-time contributor to Delhi cricket and has previously coached Kohli. His new role as state mentor will involve guiding the men's cricket program, utilizing his extensive experience to support players and the coaching framework. Similarly, Sunita Sharma has been entrusted with a comparable role for the women's teams.
Vijay Dahiya Returns to Lead Delhi Team
Vijay Dahiya has been reinstated as the head coach for the senior men's team for the upcoming 2026-27 season. He has previously held this position and led Delhi to victory in the 2007-08 Ranji Trophy. Dahiya has also served as the head coach during the 2012-13, 2014-15, and 2015-16 seasons, and was an assistant coach for the IPL 2022 champions, Gujarat Titans.
Dahiya Succeeds Sarandeep Singh
Dahiya will take over the responsibilities from former Indian off-spinner and selector Sarandeep Singh, who has been the head coach for the last two seasons and is now part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).
KP Bhaskar Appointed Chief Selector
The DDCA has also made changes to the selection committee, appointing former Delhi player KP Bhaskar as the chairman of the senior men's selection committee. He will be joined by Manu Nair and Praveen Gupta as committee members. The women's senior selection committee will be led by former Indian player Reema Malhotra.
Ranji Trophy Campaign Kicks Off on October 11
The first major domestic tournament for the newly structured coaching and selection system will be the Ranji Trophy. Delhi will commence its 2026-27 Ranji Trophy campaign on October 11 against Bengal in Kalyani.
DDCA Implements New Cricket Framework
The DDCA has not only revamped the senior team but has also made appointments for coaching and support staff across various age groups in both men's and women's cricket. A high-performance group has been established to include specialist coaches aimed at enhancing player skills.
In this new setup, Vijay Dahiya will coach the senior men's team, while Rajkumar Sharma will provide overarching guidance as the state mentor. This marks a fresh coaching and mentorship approach for Delhi cricket in the 2026-27 domestic season.