IPL 2025: Kevin Pietersen Rejoins Delhi Capitals as Mentor, to Work Alongside Munaf Patel & Others

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In a big move ahead of IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals have appointed former England captain Kevin Pietersen as their team mentor. Pietersen, who previously played for the franchise in the 2012 and 2014 seasons, will now bring his extensive cricketing experience to the coaching staff.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Pietersen said, "I've got incredible memories of representing the Delhi franchise in the IPL, and I’ve been able to maintain that passion for the team even as a broadcaster over the years."

He further added, "I’ve got a great relationship with the owners and the Delhi Capitals fans, so when this idea came about, it was a very quick YES from me."

Delhi Capitals' Chairman and Co-owner, Kiran Kumar Grandhi, welcomed Pietersen's return, saying, "We are delighted to welcome KP as our team mentor. He has been a Delhi boy, having played for us in the IPL earlier, and it's great to have him back in a different role."

Co-owner Parth Jindal also expressed confidence in Pietersen's appointment: "KP was arguably one of the best modern-day batters, and having him in our team is a valuable addition."

Who Will Kevin Pietersen Join in Delhi Capitals' Staff?

Kevin Pietersen will work alongside an experienced Delhi Capitals support staff as he takes on the role of team mentor. The coaching setup is headed by Hemang Badani, who was appointed as head coach ahead of IPL 2025. A former India international, Badani has previously worked in coaching roles in domestic cricket and franchise leagues.

The team also has Venugopal Rao as Director of Cricket, bringing his expertise as a former India cricketer and administrator. Assisting Badani is Matthew Mott, the newly appointed assistant coach. Mott led England’s men's team to the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup title and previously coached Australia’s women’s team to multiple trophies.

Munaf Patel, a member of India's 2011 World Cup-winning squad, serves as the bowling coach, providing valuable experience to Delhi’s pace attack.

Kevin Pietersen & IPL – A Long Connection

Pietersen's IPL journey began in 2009, and he has represented multiple franchises, including Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rising Pune Supergiant. Notably, he captained Delhi Daredevils in the 2014 season. Over his IPL career, Pietersen played 36 matches, amassing 1,001 runs. His most successful stint was with Delhi in 2012, where he scored 305 runs at a strike rate of 147, including an unbeaten 103*.

Beyond the IPL, Pietersen boasts an illustrious international career. He played 104 Tests for England, scoring 8,181 runs, and featured in 136 ODIs, accumulating 4,440 runs. His aggressive and innovative batting style made him one of the most formidable batsmen of his era.

With these strategic additions to their coaching lineup, Delhi Capitals aim to clinch their maiden IPL title