Abhay Sharma Joins LSG as Fielding Coach for IPL 2026 Season
Former Delhi cricketer Abhay Sharma is set to bring his extensive coaching experience to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as he joins the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as their new fielding coach for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. The 56-year-old has previously worked with India’s Under-19 and Uganda national teams, as well as the Indian Women’s team, making him one of the most seasoned domestic coaches in India’s cricketing circuit. So let’s have a look at Abhay Sharma joins LSG as fielding coach.
Abhay Sharma Likely to Replace Jonty Rhodes at LSG
Abhay Sharma is expected to replace South African legend Jonty Rhodes, who has served as LSG’s fielding coach since the franchise’s inception in 2022. With Rhodes’ contract reportedly coming to an end after IPL 2025, Sharma is set to step into his shoes as part of LSG’s new-look support staff led by head coach Justin Langer.
A former wicketkeeper-batter who represented Delhi and Railways in domestic cricket, Abhay Sharma has also held coaching roles with several Indian teams across age groups and formats. His wealth of experience in player development and fielding excellence makes him a strong addition to the LSG setup.
Impressive Coaching Journey Across Multiple Levels
Abhay Sharma’s coaching credentials include serving as fielding coach for the Indian Women’s team in 2021, where he was credited for improving their overall athleticism and catching standards. He also guided India’s Under-19 team that clinched the 2018 ICC Under-19 World Cup under coach Rahul Dravid.
In 2024, Sharma took charge of the Uganda national cricket team during the ICC T20 World Cup held in the USA and West Indies — a testament to his international exposure and adaptability.
A BCCI official revealed to PTI:
“Abhay has extensive experience working with the leading Indian cricketers, and that should come in handy at LSG.”
Major Coaching Overhaul at LSG Ahead of IPL 2026
The move to bring in Abhay Sharma is part of a broader restructuring at LSG. The franchise recently appointed Tom Moody as their Global Director of Cricket and Kane Williamson as their Strategic Advisor, signaling a strong intent to revamp their coaching framework.
After finishing seventh in IPL 2025, with just six wins in 14 matches, LSG is looking to bounce back stronger. With the addition of Sharma and an upgraded backroom team, the franchise aims to sharpen its fielding standards and mount a serious challenge for the IPL 2026 title.
Also read: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 Squads: Complete Team Lists
Conclusion
Abhay Sharma’s arrival marks a new chapter for Lucknow Super Giants, who are determined to rebuild and rise again in IPL 2026. With his expertise and the franchise’s renewed focus on player development, LSG fans can expect a more disciplined and competitive outfit in the upcoming season.
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