Delhi Capitals (DC) have added fresh energy to their backroom staff ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, appointing an England great as their new assistant coach. The move signals a strategic shift for the franchise after Australian tactician Matthew Mott completed his stint as assistant coach during the 2025 campaign.
After narrowly missing out on a playoff berth last season, the Capitals appear determined to fine-tune both their squad and support system. The management believes that the inclusion of a seasoned international name in the coaching group will bring calmness, tactical depth, and valuable mentorship to a side brimming with talent but seeking consistency.
England icon begins IPL journey as assistant coach of Delhi Capitals
The man entrusted with this responsibility is none other than former England batting mainstay Ian Bell. Widely regarded as one of England’s most elegant and dependable batters of his generation, Bell will be experiencing the IPL environment for the first time in any official capacity.
Bell’s playing career speaks volumes about his pedigree. Representing England in 118 Tests, 161 ODIs, and eight T20 internationals, he was known for his classical strokeplay and composure under pressure. Since retiring from professional cricket in 2020, Bell has quietly built an impressive coaching résumé.
He has been closely associated with England’s Lions and Under-19 setups, playing a crucial role in grooming emerging talent. His eye for technique and temperament has earned praise within English cricketing circles. Bell also served as batting coach for Sri Lanka during their 2024 Test tour of England, gaining valuable international exposure from the other side of the dressing room.
In addition, he had a short assignment with New Zealand’s men’s side during their preparations in England before the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the franchise circuit, Bell was part of Birmingham Phoenix’s coaching unit in The Hundredfurther strengthening his T20 credentials.
At Delhi Capitals, he will work under Director of Cricket Venugopal Raoalongside head coach Breathe Dancers and bowling coach Munaf Patel. The Capitals are hopeful that Bell’s calm presence and technical expertise will sharpen their batting unit in crunch situations — an area that cost them dearly in IPL 2025.
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A balanced DC squad ready for the big challenge
Beyond the coaching change, Delhi Capitals have assembled a squad that looks both balanced and battle-ready for IPL 2026. The franchise has blended established Indian stars with smart overseas acquisitions to create a formidable unit.
After parting ways with underperformers such as Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurkDC reinforced their top order by signing Pathum Nissanka and Ben Duckett, while also bringing back Prithvi Shaw to add stability at the top. The trade acquisition of Nitish Rana and the auction steal of David Miller for ₹2 crore provide experience and finishing prowess alongside the retained Tristan Stubbs.
Their pace battery could be one of the most feared in the league, spearheaded by Mitchell Starc, T. Natarajanand Good luck. Meanwhile, the ₹8.40 crore investment in uncapped all-rounder Auqib Nabi Dar could prove to be a masterstroke if he delivers on his potential. In the spin department, the trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Akhar Pateland Vipraj Nigam ensures control during the middle overs.
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