The future of Gujarat Titans (GT) seems uncertain, extending beyond just management as reports suggest that head coach Ashish Nehra might part ways with the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 season. This development comes into the spotlight after Ricky Ponting’s stepped down from his role as the head coach of Delhi Capitals (DC), raising questions about Nehra’s position with GT.
Insiders from the IPL indicate that GT’s management, which includes key officials based in the UK, Mumbai, and Singapore, is contemplating changes to their coaching staff for the upcoming season. Over the past three years, the coaching team has featured Vikram Solanki as the Director of Cricket, Ashish Nehra as the Head Coach, and Gary Kirsten serving as both Mentor and Batting Coach.
IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans Set for Major Changes Amidst Coaching Shakeup
Despite their success in winning the IPL title in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023 after losing to CSK in the finals, Gujarat Titans (GT) may soon undergo significant changes. Multiple factors seem to be driving this potential overhaul.
Gary Kirsten, who served as the team’s mentor and batting coach, has already moved on to join the Pakistan coaching setup. While Vikram Solanki, GT’s Director of Cricket, might stay on, his presence has been less noticeable, particularly during the IPL 2024 season.
Speculation about a possible change in ownership from CVC to Torrent Pharma or the Adani Group has also surfaced, but any such decision is expected to be deferred until February next year.
In related news, Kumar Sangakkara, currently the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, is being considered for the role of England’s white-ball head coach. If Sangakkara takes the England job, Rahul Dravid could be a strong contender to replace him at Rajasthan Royals. Dravid has prior experience coaching the franchise before moving on to his current role with the BCCI.
Commenting on the rumors, Sangakkara stated, “I’m aware my name has been mentioned, but there’s been no formal approach. The England white-ball coach position is a great opportunity, but there are many qualified candidates. I’m very content with my role at Rajasthan Royals, which I’ve enjoyed for the past four years.”
An ECB official added, “There will be an interview process eventually, but no shortlist has been created yet.” For the upcoming ODI series against Australia at home, Marcus Trescothick will step in as interim head coach until a permanent appointment is made.
