Delhi Capitals Appoint Chaminda Vaas as Fast-Bowling Coach Ahead of IPL Season

New Delhi, October 17: Delhi Capitals have appointed former Sri Lankan fast bowler Chaminda Vaas as their fast-bowling coach as the franchise continues to overhaul its support staff ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Vaas replaces former India pacer Munaf Patel, who served as the team's bowling coach over the previous two seasons. Announcing the appointment on its official X handle, the franchise welcomed the Sri Lankan legend with a post describing him as a World Cup winner and one of the country's finest cricketers.

The appointment adds further experience to a revamped coaching setup led by head coach Sourav Ganguly. Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has also joined the franchise as batting and assistant coach.

Vaas is among Sri Lanka's most accomplished bowlers, having claimed 355 wickets in 111 Test matches and 400 wickets in One-Day Internationals. A key member of Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup-winning squad, he was widely admired for his ability to swing the new ball, maintain accuracy and adapt to different playing conditions.

The 52-year-old has considerable coaching experience, having served as Sri Lanka's bowling coach across three separate stints. He began his coaching career with a brief assignment in New Zealand before joining the Sri Lankan national team between 2013 and 2015. He later worked with Ireland during the 2016 T20 World Cup before returning to the Sri Lankan setup.

Vaas is also familiar with the IPL, having represented the now-defunct Deccan Chargers from 2008 to 2010 during the tournament's early years.

Delhi Capitals are yet to win an IPL title, with their only final appearance coming in 2020. The team also missed out on the playoffs in the last two seasons.

The franchise is jointly owned by the GMR and JSW groups, which alternate management responsibilities every two years. With GMR's tenure ending in 2026, JSW is set to take charge, prompting significant changes to the coaching and management structure.

As part of the reshuffle, Delhi Capitals have also parted ways with director of cricket Venugopal Rao and former head coach Hemang Badani as they look to build a stronger campaign for the upcoming season.