Ryan ten Doeschate steps down as India’s assistant coach ahead of Sri Lanka Test series

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India’s coaching setup has undergone a significant change ahead of the upcoming three-Test series against Sri Lanka, with assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate stepping down from his role after two years. His decision comes despite the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) offering him a contract extension until 2027, highlighting the board’s appreciation for his contribution to the national team.

The coaching reshuffle comes at an important stage of India’s calendar as Gautam Gambhir’s side prepares for its first Test assignment since the tour of England. The coaching reshuffle comes at an important stage of India’s calendar as Gautam Gambhir’s side prepares for the Sri Lanka Test series, which begins on August 15.

Ten Doeschate informed the BCCI of his decision during India’s recent white-ball tour of England, making it his final assignment with the national side. According to reports, the former Netherlands all-rounder declined the board’s extension offer due to personal reasons, choosing to spend more time with his young family after the demanding schedule of international cricket.

Ten Doeschate joined India’s coaching staff in July 2024 after Gambhir replaced Rahul Dravid as head coach following India’s T20 World Cup triumph. Having previously worked alongside Gambhir at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), he was brought into the national setup as an assistant coach alongside bowling coach Morne Morkel.

Although he did not hold a specialist designation, Ten Doeschate played a key role in batting preparation, fielding drills and tactical planning. During his tenure, India lifted the 2025 Asia Cup and successfully defended the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026. Reports also suggest he was disappointed by the lack of clarity surrounding his responsibilities, having expected to eventually take over as the team’s specialist fielding coach.

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Ten Doeschate’s departure is not the only change to India’s support staff. Fielding coach T Dilip has also parted ways with the national team after the completion of his contract and will not travel to Sri Lanka for the upcoming Test series.

The BCCI is now expected to complete Gambhir’s coaching group before the August 15 opener against Sri Lanka. According to a report by India Today, Ten Doeschate is expected to return to the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders, where he previously enjoyed a successful association as both a player and coach. A move back to the Kolkata-based franchise would reunite him with several familiar faces from his previous stint.

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