The countdown to IPL 2025, which is less than a month away, began in right earnest with Delhi Capitals announcing Kevin Pietersen — the star England batter and a hugely popular TV pundit in India — as their mentor for the season.

‘KP,’ as he is popular as, will work alongside a support staff which includes Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao, head coach Hemang Badani, assistant coach Matthew Mott and bowling coach Munaf Patel.

 In a release from the franchise, KP, who has spent two seasons with the team as a player said: ‘’I’ve got incredible memories of representing the Delhi franchise in the IPL and I’ve been able to maintain that passion for the team even as a broadcaster over the years. I shared the field with Venu (Venugopal Rao) during the 2012 season, and it’s great to be reconnecting with him as we begin a new chapter at this amazing franchise.

‘’I’ve got a great relationship with the owners and the Delhi Capitals fans, so when this idea came about, it was a very quick yes from me. It’s an exciting opportunity to step into this new role as a mentor for the Capitals, and I’m really looking forward to joining the squad, working closely with the boys and doing everything I can to help us win that ultimate prize,’’ he added.

 The task will be cut out for the charismatic former England captain, who is stepping into the big shoes of Ricky Ponting – who was relieved of his duties after a long and mixed stint since 2018. Sourav Ganguly, former India captain, had worked in tandem with Ponting for a number of seasons – but a management structure overhaul now has him looking after their women’s team in the ongoing Women’s Premier League (WPL).  

 A veteran of 200 T20Is with 5695 runs, Pietersen appeared in 36 IPL matches scoring 1001 runs across his stints with the Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Pune franchise. The South African-born player, who captained England between 2008-2009, won the Player of the Series award for his remarkable performance in the 2010 ICC T20 World Cup which helped England secure their maiden ICC trophy.

 In a stellar Test career, Pietersen played 104 Tests, scoring 8181 runs and 136 ODIs, amassing 4440 runs.

Welcoming Pietersen onboard,  Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman & Co-owner, Delhi Capitals, said: ‘’We are delighted to welcome KP as our team mentor. He has been a Delhi boy, having played for us in the IPL earlier and it’s great to have him back in a different role. We are confident that his vast experience, his tactical understanding of the game, and his passion for the franchise will be invaluable to our team and our players.’’