Ahead of mega auction, Munaf Patel named as Delhi Capitals bowling coach
World Cup-winning fast bowler Munaf Patel has been appointed as the new bowling coach for Delhi Capitals, the franchise announced on Tuesday (November 12). Munaf joins a revamped coaching staff led by Venugopal Rao, the Director of Cricket, and HemangBadani, the head coach. This change comes after Delhi Capitals parted ways with long-time head coach Ricky Ponting earlier this year.
Munaf will take over the role previously held by former Australian all-rounder James Hopes, who left the franchise amicably. His appointment is part of a broader restructuring effort by Delhi Capitals, which has shifted its focus toward an Indian-dominated coaching staff. Munaf brings valuable experience from his international career, where he represented India in all three formats. He also has extensive IPL experience, having played 63 matches for Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and Gujarat Lions, taking 74 wickets at an economy rate of 7.51. His last IPL appearance was in 2017.
Looking ahead to the IPL 2025 auction, DC has retained key players such as all-rounder Axar Patel, spinner Kuldeep Yadav, South African batter Tristan Stubbs, and uncapped wicketkeeper AbishekPorel. With a strong INR 73 crore purse—the third-highest among teams—Delhi Capitals aims to strengthen their squad after failing to reach the playoffs in the past three seasons. The mega auction will take place on November 24-25.