Delhi Capitals (DC) have strengthened their coaching staff by appointing Munaf Patel, 2011 World Cup-winning fast bowler, as their new bowling coach for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Auction. The franchise made the announcement on Tuesday, November 12. Munaf will join a support team led by Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao and Head Coach Hemang Badani.
This year, Delhi Capitals revamped their coaching setup, parting ways with long-time head coach Ricky Ponting, and Rao and Badani took charge of building the new staff lineup.
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Munaf fills the role previously held by James Hopes. The former Indian pacer brings valuable skills and insight to the role. He has the experience across all formats for India and with franchises like Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and Gujarat Lions. His last IPL appearance was in 2017. Over his IPL career, Munaf played 63 matches, claiming 74 wickets at an average of 22 and an economy rate of 7.51.
Munaf Patel represented India in 13 Tests, 70 ODIs, and 3 T20Is between 2006 and 2011. Recognized for sheer pace, Munaf quickly became one of India's fastest bowlers, though his career was marred by injury setbacks. Despite these challenges, he played a crucial role in India's 2011 World Cup triumph.
Over his international career, Munaf claimed 125 wickets, including 86 in ODIs, with an impressive economy rate of 4.95.
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Munaf Patel's final IPL appearance was in 2017 with Gujarat Lions, following a stint with Mumbai Indians, where he was part of their title-winning team in 2013. Despite a strong start to his IPL career, he didn't feature in a league match for three years before making his final appearance with the Lions.
Delhi Capitals had a challenging IPL 2024 season, securing only 7 wins out of 14 matches and missing out on the playoffs. Ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction, the franchise made the bold move of releasing their captain, Rishabh Pant, who will now be part of the upcoming auction.