Kevin Pietersen, the former England captain, has been appointed as the mentor of Delhi Capitals for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. This move marks a significant shift for the franchise, which has undergone a major overhaul in its coaching staff ahead of the new season. With his vast experience in international and franchise cricket, Pietersen is set to bring a fresh perspective to the team.
The appointment also marks a homecoming of sorts for Pietersen, who previously played for Delhi when the franchise was known as Delhi Daredevils. He was part of the team in 2012 and 2014, even captaining them in the latter season, though the campaign ended in disappointment with Delhi finishing at the bottom of the table. Now, he returns in a new role, tasked with guiding and inspiring a young squad eager to make an impact.
Despite having no prior coaching experience, this role presents Pietersen with an opportunity to transition into a new phase of his cricketing career. Since retiring, he has built a successful career as a commentator and cricket analyst, known for his sharp insights and fearless opinions. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his attacking mindset, could prove invaluable to Delhi Capitals.
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Kevin Pietersen expressed his enthusiasm about the role, reminiscing about his time with the franchise and his bond with DC owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi. “I’ve got incredible memories of representing the Delhi franchise in the IPL, and I’ve maintained that passion even as a broadcaster. I played alongside Venu (Venugopal Rao) in 2012, and it’s great to be reconnecting with him as we start a new chapter,” Pietersen said.
BREAKING!
Delhi Capitals announce Kevin Pietersen as their mentor for IPL 2025! pic.twitter.com/SPmH7RtlHl
— India Today Sports (@ITGDsports) February 27, 2025
His IPL journey saw him play for three franchises over five seasons, including a stint as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2009. Known for revolutionizing modern batting, Pietersen was one of England’s most dynamic players. He popularized the ‘Switch Hit,’ a shot that redefined T20 batting, and his innovative strokeplay made him one of the format’s most dangerous batters.
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Pietersen’s T20I record is equally impressive—1176 runs in 37 matches at an average of 37.93 and a strike rate of 141.51. He was instrumental in England’s historic T20 World Cup triumph in 2010. As he embarks on this new journey with Delhi Capitals, his wealth of experience and aggressive mindset could make a crucial difference for the team in IPL 2025.
