The batsmen and bowlers often grab the headlines in the Indian Premier League. But the coaches behind these star performers probably don't get the credit they deserve.
Decisions made and tactics implemented off the field are important in trying to ensure big runs are scored and plenty of wickets are taking during the match.
Knowing a bit more about the coaches in the IPL can make for a better cricket betting experience. For example, understanding that Brendon McCullum was a player for the Kolkata Knight Riders and is now their coach might make betting on KKR a stronger option for KKR.
Then there's Ricky Ponting, who played for Kolkata and the Mumbai Indians and later became the coach of the Delhi Capitals. He'll have insight about KKR and MI that DC otherwise wouldn't have gained, had they not employed Ponting. Delhi Capitals cricket betting is among popular markets for the IPL.
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IPL coaches, Mumbai Indians – Mahela Jayawardene
Former Sri Lanka batsman and captain Mahela Jayawardene is the head coach of the Mumbai Indians. He has had the position since 2017. Mumbai won the 2019 IPL and have claimed four titles overall. Jaywardene is a masterful tactician has a particularly positive influence over the Mumbai batsmen.
IPL coaches, Sunrisers Hyderabad – Trevor Bayliss
The Sunrisers Hyderabad won the Indian Premier League in 2016. Former England coach Trevor Bayliss is their head coach, having succeeded former Australia fast bowler Tom Moody. Bayliss won the 2019 World Cup with England. Bangalore will benefit from his experience.
IPL coaches, Royal Challengers Bangalore – Simon Katich
The Royal Challengers Bangalore hadn't won an IPL title by the time the 2020 tournament arrived, despite having played in three finals. Former Australia batsman Simon Katich is their head coach. They also have former New Zealand and Kings XI Punjab head coach Mike Hesson as director of cricket operations.
IPL coaches, Rajasthan Royals – Andrew McDonald
The Rajasthan Royals won the first Indian Premier League in 2008. Former Australia all-rounder Andrew McDonald is their head coach. He succeeded former head coach Paddy Upton. McDonald is effectively a more hands-on head coach than Upton, who has a big focus on the mental side of the game.
IPL coaches, Kolkata Knight Riders – Brendon McCullum
The Kolkata Knight Riders eventually terminated a long-term relationship with former South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis, who was a player, mentor and head coach for the franchise. They have McCullum at the helm now. His vast knowledge of T20 cricket should serve them well.
IPL coaches, Kings XI Punjab – Anil Kumble
Former Test captain Anil Kumble is the only Indian head coach in the Indian Premier League. While other franchises have looked to talent from abroad, the Kings XI Punjab have stuck with the homegrown Kumble. He has also worked with RCB and MI, so will have some inside scoop at least when KXIP play these teams.
IPL coaches, Chennai Super Kings – Stephen Fleming
The Chennai Super Kings and head coach Stephen Fleming have worked together for a long time. He has been with them for 10 years. When Chennai were suspended from the IPL in 2016 and 2017, Fleming coached the Rising Pune Supergiant. His working relationship with MS Dhoni and other central Chennai figures has since picked up again.
IPL coaches, Delhi Capitals – Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting is one of the greatest batsmen in the history of international cricket. Since playing, he has turned his attention to coaching and has worked with the Australian national team. He is a no-nonsense character and coach, which the Delhi Capitals have come to understand and appreciate.
IPL coaches
| IPL franchise |
IPL coach |
| Mumbai Indians |
Mahela Jayawardene |
| Hyderabad Sunrisers |
Trevor Bayliss |
| Chennai Super Kings |
Stephen Fleming |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore |
Simon Katich |
| Delhi Capitals |
Ricky Ponting |
| Kolkata Knight Riders |
Brendon McCullum |
| Rajasthan Royals |
Andrew McDonald |
| Kings XI Punjab |
Anil Kumble |
Indian Premier League 2020
New or old to the job, Ponting, Fleming, McDonald, McCullum and the rest will be seen during the 2020 Indian Premier League, when Mumbai will attempt to retain the title and the other seven franchises will try overthrow them.
The IPL is the most popular domestic T20 tournament on the global cricket calendar. With it, comes hundreds and thousands of IPL betting markets for bettors to choose from. Our bookmaker reviews, top tips, match previews and cricket news will help users have a good IPL betting experience.
