Gujarat Titans (GT) have bolstered their coaching setup ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 by appointing former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya as their new assistant coach. The franchise confirmed the development on Wednesday, as preparations intensify for the upcoming IPL campaign.
Dahiya brings with him a wealth of experience from both his playing and coaching careers. During his time as a cricketer, he represented India in 19 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and two Test matches, earning recognition for his reliable wicketkeeping and calm presence behind the stumps. At the domestic level, he was a key performer for Delhi, where he built a strong reputation before eventually moving into coaching after retiring from professional cricket.
Over the years, Dahiya has developed an impressive coaching résumé. One of his notable achievements came during the 2007-08 Ranji Trophy season, when he guided Delhi to the title as a coach. His experience also extends to the IPL, where he previously worked with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as an assistant coach, often collaborating with renowned coach Andy Flower.
Confirming the appointment, the franchise said in a statement: “Gujarat Titans today announced the appointment of former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya as an Assistant Coach ahead of the TATA IPL 2026 season, further strengthening the franchise’s coaching setup.”
Gujarat Titans strengthen their coaching team
Dahiya’s arrival is part of a broader effort by Gujarat Titans to reinforce their support staff ahead of the new season. The franchise recently added former Australian batting great Matthew Hayden as their batting coach. Hayden, who famously won the Orange Cap in 2009 while playing for Chennai Super Kings, replaces former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel in that specific role, although Patel will continue to remain involved with the coaching group as an assistant.
The revamped coaching structure now features Ashish Nehra as head coach, with Dahiya serving as assistant coach and Hayden taking charge as batting coach. Parthiv Patel remains part of the support staff, ensuring continuity within the team’s backroom setup.
The franchise’s Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki had earlier stressed the importance of strengthening the Titans’ cricketing ecosystem. Hayden’s appointment, he said previously, came at a “pivotal phase” in the team’s development, highlighting the management’s long-term vision for sustained success.
Since entering the IPL in 2022, Gujarat Titans have quickly established themselves as one of the most competitive teams in the tournament. The franchise made a dream start by winning the title in their debut season under the leadership of Hardik Pandya. They have since remained consistent performers, reaching the playoffs in three of their first four seasons.
Last year, the team – led by Shubman Gill – finished fourth in the standings and qualified for the playoffs. However, their campaign ended in the Eliminator against Mumbai Indians, cutting short their hopes of another title run.
With a strengthened coaching lineup and several experienced mentors guiding the squad, Gujarat Titans will aim to bounce back strongly in the upcoming season.
Gujarat Titans to play their first match of IPL 2026 on March 31
The Titans will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on March 31 with an away match against Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. They will then return home for their first match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where they will face Rajasthan Royals on April 4.
The squad for the upcoming season features a strong mix of international stars and domestic talent. Captain Shubman Gill will lead the side, supported by newly acquired England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler. The bowling attack remains formidable with Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan, along with fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada.
