T. Dilip Returns as Fielding Coach for India's Upcoming Test Series in England

T. Dilip's Reinstatement as Fielding Coach

New Delhi: As the Indian men's cricket team prepares for a five-match Test series in England, T. Dilip has been reinstated as the fielding coach. Initially appointed in November 2021 during Rahul Dravid's tenure as head coach, Dilip's contract was extended until March of this year, but he was removed from the support staff last month.

Now based in Hyderabad, Dilip has secured a one-year contract. Sources familiar with the situation revealed that discussions about his return had been ongoing for several days, and the confirmation of his reinstatement has now been made official. He will join the coaching staff for the crucial Test tour of England.

Dilip gained popularity through videos shared on BCCI's social media, where he awarded medals to the best fielder of the match—a trend that began during the 2023 Men's ODI World Cup and gained traction during India's successful campaigns in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Prior to his role with the Indian team, Dilip was a fielding coach at the National Cricket Academy (now known as BCCI Centre of Excellence) in Bengaluru and also worked with the India 'A' team for over a year. His coaching journey started with various age groups and the first-class team in Hyderabad.

In his time with the Indian team, Dilip has worked alongside both seasoned players and newcomers, significantly enhancing the team's catching and fielding skills. Given the overcast conditions and strong winds expected in England, the Indian slip fielders will need to be particularly vigilant to catch any edges.

The Test series against England is scheduled from June 20 to August 4, with matches taking place at Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval. India aims to secure a Test series victory in England for the first time since 2007.

Additionally, India will face India 'A' in a match at Beckenham from June 13-16. Prior to this, nine players from the Test squad will participate in two matches against England Lions, with the first match starting on May 30 at St Lawrence Ground in Canterbury.