India’s support staff has undergone another notable change, with T Dilip’s tenure as the national team’s fielding coach officially coming to an end. Having spent five years with the senior men’s side, the Hyderabad-based coach leaves behind an impressive legacy, having been part of multiple ICC title-winning campaigns and introducing initiatives that became popular within the dressing room.
Soon after Dilip’s departure was confirmed, former India captain Rohit Sharma took to social media to acknowledge the coach’s contribution and shared a heartfelt message for one of the most respected members of the support staff.
Dilip first joined Team India in November 2021 during Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach and continued working with the side under Gautam Gambhir. After completing his latest one-year contract, which began ahead of India’s 2025 Test tour of England, his stint with the national team officially came to an end. During his time with Team India, the side enjoyed remarkable success, winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024 and 2026, along with the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.
Rohit shared an emotional message on his Instagram story, thanking T Dilip for his contribution to the Indian team and wishing him the very best for the future.
“You are a legend, Dilip garu. You created magic within the group and [you are] a behind the scenes workhorse. Best wishes ahead.”
One of Dilip’s biggest contributions off the field was the introduction of the ‘Best Fielder of the Match’ medal ceremony during the 2023 ODI World Cup. The unique initiative quickly became a dressing-room tradition, with players including Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja among those honoured for their fielding performances.
T Dilip reflects on memorable five-year journey with Team India
Following the end of his tenure, Dilip shared an emotional farewell message on social media, looking back on his journey with the Indian team. He also expressed his gratitude for getting the opportunity to contribute to Indian cricket.
“Five years. It is difficult to find the right words for a journey that has meant so much. When I first walked into this setup, I came in with one simple intention, to give everything I had every single day. Fielding has always been my way of contributing to the game I love, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played a part in this team’s journey. The fielding medal will always hold a very special place in my heart. Seeing the excitement it created in the dressing room, the smiles it brought and the value the players attached to it are memories I’ll carry with me forever.”
Meanwhile, the BCCI has appointed Subhadeep Ghosh as India’s new fielding coach. The former Assam cricketer has previously worked with the Indian women’s team, India A, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and will begin his tenure with the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka under head coach Gautam Gambhir.
