IPL 2026: Full List of Head Coaches for All 10 Teams

As the excitement builds toward the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, franchises have begun confirming their coaching panels, with several teams opting for continuity while others have undergone leadership changes. The upcoming season is already making headlines — especially after major developments involving big names like Kumar Sangakkara, Abhishek Nayar, Mahela Jayawardene, Stephen Fleming, Andy Flower, and Ricky Ponting.

Below is the complete list of IPL 2026 head coaches, along with the major updates leading into the new season.

Kumar Sangakkara Returns as Rajasthan Royals Head Coach

Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara has been officially reappointed as the Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals (RR) for IPL 2026.
He replaces Rahul Dravid, who exited after the team’s disappointing run in the previous season.

RR announced on X:

“Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara will also take charge as Head Coach for IPL 2026.”

Dravid’s departure came after a “structural review” of the franchise’s poor performance, where RR managed only 4 wins from 14 games, finishing 9th in the standings.

Sangakkara previously coached RR from 2021 to 2024, and his return marks a renewed push for consistency and strategic rebuilding.

Abhishek Nayar Takes Over at Kolkata Knight Riders

On October 30, KKR appointed Abhishek Nayar as their new head coach for IPL 2026.
He replaces Chandrakant Pandit, whose tenure ended after three seasons.

Nayar has been crucial to the KKR setup since 2018 and is regarded as a strategic thinker deeply involved with the team's development pathways. His coaching stint with the Indian national setup under Gautam Gambhir further strengthened his credentials.

Mahela Jayawardene Continues as Mumbai Indians Head Coach

Mahela Jayawardene, one of the most successful IPL coaches, will continue leading Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2026.
He returned to the position last season after a break and had previously served as MI’s head coach from 2017 to 2022, guiding the team to multiple title wins.

With MI aiming to reclaim its championship form, Jayawardene’s experience will be pivotal.

Stephen Fleming Extends His Legacy with Chennai Super Kings

New Zealand great Stephen Fleming, who has been associated with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since 2009, continues to hold his position as head coach.

Fleming is the longest-serving coach in IPL history and a central figure in CSK’s culture and success. His strategic consistency ensures CSK remains one of the most stable franchises.

Andy Flower Continues with Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will move into the 2026 season with Andy Flower as their head coach.

Flower’s leadership played a significant role in RCB’s transformation, and retaining him is a signal that the franchise wants to maintain continuity after finding success in recent years.

Justin Langer Leads Lucknow Super Giants Again

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have retained Justin Langer as their head coach, with Bharat Arun continuing as fast-bowling coach.

Langer’s structured coaching style and Arun’s expertise with bowlers keep LSG positioned as a competitive unit.

Gujarat Titans Yet to Announce Official Head Coach

The Gujarat Titans (GT) have not made an official announcement regarding their head coach for the 2026 season.

However, the franchise website still lists Ashish Nehra, who has been their head coach since 2022, as the current coach.
Under Nehra, GT won the title in their debut season and reached the finals the following year, making him one of the most impactful modern IPL coaches.

Hemang Badani Continues with Delhi Capitals

Former India batter Hemang Badani, who took charge of Delhi Capitals (DC) during the 2025 season, will continue as the head coach for IPL 2026.

DC has shown faith in Badani’s analytical and player-development-focused approach as they aim for a stronger comeback.

Daniel Vettori Likely to Continue as SRH Head Coach

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are expected to continue with Daniel Vettori at the helm.
His guidance has brought stability to SRH’s squad structure and on-field decision-making.

Though an official announcement is awaited, Vettori’s continuity appears almost certain.

Ricky Ponting Stays with Punjab Kings

Australian legend Ricky Ponting will continue as the head coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for IPL 2026.

Ponting’s leadership, tactical intelligence, and player management have been vital for Punjab as they target consistency and better finishes.

Full List of IPL 2026 Head Coaches

Here’s the complete list, team-by-team:

• Rajasthan Royals (RR): Kumar Sangakkara

• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Abhishek Nayar

• Mumbai Indians (MI): Mahela Jayawardene

• Chennai Super Kings (CSK): Stephen Fleming

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Andy Flower

• Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): Justin Langer

• Gujarat Titans (GT): Ashish Nehra (yet to be officially confirmed)

• Delhi Capitals (DC): Hemang Badani

• Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Daniel Vettori (likely to continue)

• Punjab Kings (PBKS): Ricky Ponting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is the head coach of Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026?

Kumar Sangakkara has been reappointed as RR’s head coach for the 2026 season.

2. Who replaced Chandrakant Pandit as KKR head coach?

Abhishek Nayar is the new KKR head coach.

3. Will Stephen Fleming continue with CSK in 2026?

Yes, Stephen Fleming remains CSK’s head coach.

4. Who is coaching RCB for IPL 2026?

Andy Flower continues as head coach of RCB.

5. Has Gujarat Titans announced their coach for 2026?

Not officially, but Ashish Nehra is still listed as the coach on GT’s website.

6. Is Ricky Ponting still head coach of Punjab Kings?

Yes, Ricky Ponting continues as PBKS head coach.