Sourav Ganguly, Indian cricket’s most beloved captain and administrator, has ventured into a new chapter in his first official stint as head coach in franchise cricket. The Pretoria Capitals of the SA20 League announced that Ganguly will captain the team during the 2025–26 season, which is scheduled to take place from December 26 to January 25.
Known affectionately as “The Prince of Kolkata,” Ganguly brings a rich legacy of leadership to the role. With a prolific international career spanning 113 Tests and 311 ODIs, he amassed over 18,000 runs and had previously served in influential positions, including BCCI President and Team Director for the Delhi Capitals IPL franchise.
The Pretoria Capitals, who are keen to get over two consecutive lackluster seasons, have placed a heavy responsibility on Ganguly’s shoulders. His first assignment will be building a competitive team during the player auction on September 9.
His hiring comes after the exit of erstwhile coach Jonathan Trott, who led the side last season but failed to take them into the playoffs. Ganguly’s return to franchise cricket heralds the beginning of a new era of coaching that will be characterized by his strategic acumen and domineering presence.
Ganguly’s willingness to take on new opportunities is still under the spotlight. He recently revealed he remains “open” to being a coach for the Indian national team should the right opportunity come along. This more-than-bold move into the SA20 League could prove to be a big step in that direction.
With India still on the rise as a cricket giant with recent successes such as the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy in its kitty, Ganguly’s foray into coaching provides another thrilling page to his already storied career.
