Former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra has taken the first step in his coaching career after being appointed as Delhi Capitals’ spin-bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The appointment marks a homecoming for the veteran cricketer, who began his Indian Premier League journey with the Delhi-based franchise and will now look to help its bowlers succeed from the dugout.
Mishra, 43, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in September 2025. Having enjoyed an impressive career as one of the IPL’s most successful leg-spinners, he will now bring his experience and knowledge to Delhi Capitals as the franchise looks to build a stronger squad for the upcoming season.
Speaking about his appointment in a video shared on the franchise’s social media handles on Wednesday, Mishra expressed his happiness at returning to the team. “I don’t know about legends, but I did really decent in IPL. Dilli dilwallon ki hai (Delhi is of the people with a large heart). When the first season of IPL was held, I was a part of DC. Today, when I am starting my coaching career, it’s also with the DC team, and so, I am very happy.
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“A tiger is the one who never leaves his prey. Dilli is my heartbeat. We will try to give the happiness to the Dilli fans, which they have been waiting for these many years,” Amit Mishra said.
Delhi Capitals finished sixth in the IPL 2026 standings and are still searching for their maiden title. The franchise will hope Mishra’s experience can strengthen its spin department and help its bowlers deliver more consistent performances.
The OG Tiger has returned! 🥹
Amit Mishra, our highest ever wicket-taker, is now our spin-bowling coach 💙❤️ https://t.co/pKZS7lNnx5
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 21, 2026
Mishra made an immediate impact in the inaugural IPL season in 2008, claiming a five-wicket haul on his debut. That performance also featured the first of his three hat-tricks in the competition, with the other two coming in 2011 and 2013. No bowler has recorded more hat-tricks in IPL history, underlining his remarkable contribution to the tournament.
Across his IPL career, Mishra represented Delhi Capitals, formerly known as Delhi Daredevils, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants. He played his final IPL match for LSG in 2024, finishing with 174 wickets from 162 matches at an economy rate of 7.37. He also represented India between 2003 and 2017, featuring in 22 Tests, 36 ODIs and 10 T20Is.
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Mishra’s appointment follows a broader restructuring of Delhi Capitals’ support staff. He was reportedly present alongside fast-bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and assistant-cum-batting coach Yuvraj Singh at the franchise’s camp and trials in Aerocity.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has taken over as head coach. Delhi Capitals have also made changes to their squad through trades, sending left-arm pacer T Natarajan to Sunrisers Hyderabad and bringing in leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari. The franchise will aim to make the right combinations ahead of IPL 2027 as it continues its pursuit of a first championship.
