IPL 2026 Head Coaches List: Full Updated Coaching Staff of All 10 Teams

The IPL 2026 tournament is approaching quickly and the franchises have selected the head coaches for the teams as one of the biggest components of their campaign in leading from the dugouts. The IPL is set to take place on March 26 of 2026, and as of now, all 10 franchises have their head coaches in place for what is sure to be another fast-paced season of T20 cricket.

There are so many different things that can be affected as a direct result of all the different mega-auctions, the way that teams manage workload, how they create tactical match-ups and their rotation of players. Because of all this, the psychology behind the decision making of head coaches is crucial. However, most of the franchises selected for this season have made the decision to maintain the status quo, while the Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals made a pair of significant changes that point to a new strategy moving forward.

Below is a look at all of the IPL 2026 head coaches, along with insights into how they will affect their respective teams and what type of expectations are placed upon them.

Also Read: Top 5 Biggest Fights In IPL History | From Ganguly to Harbhajan Singh

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Stephen Fleming

Not many partnerships in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have lasted as long as that of Stephen Fleming and Chennai Super Kings.

Fleming the former New Zealand captain is set to kick off his 18th season as head coach of CSK. He is the longest, serving coach in the history of the IPL.

The former New Zealand captain’s composed and focused leadership, the fusion of CSK’s analytical yet instinctive approach to the game, has given the team multiple IPL titles and the record for the highest level of consistency. At the start of IPL 2026, Stephen Fleming’s connection with CSK’s core could be the biggest strength of the franchise.

Mumbai Indians (MI) – Mahela Jayawardene

Mahela Jayawardene is still leading as the head coach of five, time champions Mumbai Indians (MI). He is ready to lead the franchise to win the title again after a long time.

Returning in 2025 and helping the MI to get out of the struggling phase, the ex, Sri Lankan captain is now looking at the challenge of getting the best out of the star, studded squad while keeping the right balance. IPL 2026 might be the point in time that brings MI back to the top.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Andy Flower

Following RCB’s historic maiden IPL title in 2025, Andy Flower retains his position as head coach for IPL 2026.

The Zimbabwean legend’s tactical clarity and man-management transformed RCB into champions. With expectations soaring, Flower’s focus will be on sustaining success something RCB have historically struggled to do.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Abhishek Nayar (New Appointment)

Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders have ushered in a new era by appointing Abhishek Nayar as head coach for IPL 2026.

Replacing Chandrakant Pandit, Nayar brings modern T20 thinking and deep player-development expertise. Having joined KKR as support staff in 2025 after exiting the Indian team setup, his elevation reflects the franchise’s intent to evolve tactically.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara will return as the Head Coach of the Rajasthan Royals and continue as the Director of Cricket, marking a partnership that previously delivered success.

The Rajasthan Royals recorded their first appearance in an IPL Final and Qualifiers while Sangakkara was Head Coach (during December 2021 to May 2024). Sangakkara provided the team with an identity and competitive edge. This provides a great opportunity to see if the Rajasthan Royals can finally turn the consistency into trophies during IPL 2026.

Gujarat Titans (GT) – Ashish Nehra

Ashish Nehra will continue as Head Coach of the Gujarat Titans, a franchise that has been successful since its inception.

Nehra’s player-centric and easy-to-follow tactics have contributed to the success of the Gujarat Titans since their inception. With a stable core, the Gujarat Titans will have one more opportunity in IPL 2026 to increase their trophy collection.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Ricky Ponting

After knocking down their long, standing playoff jinx in IPL 2025, Punjab Kings have kept Ricky Ponting as their head coach.

The Australian legends aggressive auction planning and establishment of a high, performance culture have transformed PBKS mindset. IPL 2026 may well be the season when Punjab makes the final step to a maiden IPL title.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) Daniel Vettori

Daniel Vettori remains the head coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad, leading the team to play fearless and attacking cricket.

Through his leadership, SRH has given opportunities to young players and been flexible. With a better squad depth, Vettoris chess moves will be essential for a successful navigation of IPL 2026s packed calendar.

Delhi Capitals (DC) – Hemang Badani

After an auspicious beginning to IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals missed out on making the playoffs. Yet, the franchise demonstrated belief in Hemang Badani and kept him on as head coach for IPL 2026.

Badani’s emphasis will be on consistency and pressure moments, particularly with a relatively young leadership group.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Justin Langer

Ex-Australia coach Justin Langer stays at helm of Lucknow Super Giants, with star support staff additions

For IPL 2026, Bharat Arun joins as bowling coach, while Carl Crowe comes in as spin consultant strengthening LSG’s tactical backbone as they chase their first IPL title