Published By: Sanchari Das

IPL 2025: Meet the Four Indian Coaches Commanding the Dugout ft. Rahul Dravid

With the mega auction around the corner, their decisions will shape the futures of their respective franchises

As the 2025 IPL season approaches, the buzz around team preparations and player auctions is at its peak. While star players often grab the headlines, the focus this time is on the Indian head coaches leading some of the key franchises. Strong leadership and coaching staff were vital in the previous season, as seen when Gautam Gambhir helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinch the IPL 2024 title as a mentor. Ahead of the mega auction, let's explore the impact of four notable Indian head coaches who are expected to play pivotal roles in IPL 2025.

Ashish Nehra- Gujarat Titans

Ashish Nehra, who has been Gujarat Titans' head coach since their inception in 2022, has already established himself as one of the most successful IPL coaches. In their debut season, Nehra led the Titans to a sensational title win, defeating Rajasthan Royals in the final. His straightforward, player-friendly approach has been credited for building a cohesive unit.

Under his leadership, the Titans reached the finals again in 2023, narrowly losing to Chennai Super Kings. Nehra's ability to foster young talent and simplify game plans has earned him praise across the cricketing world. With the addition of Parthiv Patel as assistant coach, Nehra's strategic mind will be critical in the upcoming mega auction as Gujarat Titans aim for another title shot.

Chandrakant Pandit- Kolkata Knight Riders

Chandrakant Pandit, one of India's most decorated domestic coaches, made a successful transition to the IPL, leading Kolkata Knight Riders to their third title in 2024. Known for his strict, methodical approach, Pandit silenced critics who doubted his ability to adapt to the T20 format. His coaching resume is impressive, featuring multiple Ranji Trophy titles with Mumbai, Vidarbha, and Madhya Pradesh.

Despite a lacklustre 2023 season where KKR finished seventh, Pandit's influence became evident in 2024 as he rebuilt the team alongside mentor Gautam Gambhir. With the departure of Gambhir and other key staff, Pandit faces a new challenge but remains confident in his meticulous coaching style. Adding Dwayne Bravo as a mentor brings further experience as KKR eyes another successful campaign.

Hemang Badani- Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals have turned a new page with the appointment of Hemang Badani as head coach for IPL 2025. Badani, a former India player, boasts a strong coaching record with multiple domestic T20 titles, including three TNPL championships with Chepauk Super Gillies and two back-to-back titles in SA20 with Sunrisers Eastern Cape.

Known for his tactical acumen, Badani was previously a fielding and batting coach with Sunrisers Hyderabad, making a significant impact. He replaces Ricky Ponting, following Delhi's disappointing 2024 season where they missed the playoffs. With Venugopal Rao as the new Director of Cricket and Munaf Patel as the bowling coach, Badani's fresh approach could revitalise the Capitals as they prepare for a pivotal auction.

Rahul Dravid- Rajasthan Royals

Rahul Dravid has rejoined Rajasthan Royals as head coach, marking a comeback after leading India to a historic T20 World Cup win in 2024. The former Indian skipper, who was a Royals' captain and mentor from 2011 to 2015, brings vast experience and a winning mindset.

Dravid's coaching accolades include guiding India's U19 team to a World Cup victory in 2018 and elevating the senior team to the top of the ICC Test, ODI, and T20I rankings. Working alongside Kumar Sangakkara, Dravid aims to steer the Royals back to their glory days, building a strong, strategic core for the franchise ahead of the 2025 auction.