Vinay Kumar appointed Karnataka team's head coach ahead of domestic season

Karnataka cricket is ushering in a new era with former India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru's pacer Vinay Kumar taking the reins as head coach for the upcoming domestic season. The 42-year-old steps into the role previously held by Yere Goud. To round out the new technical setup, former state batter Deepak Chougule has also been brought on board, taking charge as the team's fielding coach.

Vinay Kumar becomes Karnataka's head coach

This appointment marks Vinay's maiden head-coaching stint for his home state, following his recent term leading the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy. Since hanging up his boots from top-tier and international cricket in 2021, Vinay has built a strong coaching and analytical resume, serving as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and working as a fast-bowling consultant for MI Emirates in the UAE-based ILT20.

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Vinay Kumar's excellent track record

The veteran quick leaves an unmatched legacy on the field, remaining the most prolific seam bowler in Ranji Trophy history with 442 scalps, a tally that places him fifth overall among all bowlers in the tournament's rich history. Across a stellar 139-match first-class career, he amassed 504 wickets at a stingy average of 22.44. On the national and domestic stages, Vinay represented India in a Test match and 31 ODIs, while also achieving legendary status as captain of Karnataka by leading them to back-to-back domestic trebles, sweeping the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Irani Cup, between 2013 and 2015.

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Beyond his red-ball achievements, Vinay enjoyed immense success in franchise cricket, lifting three Indian Premier League titles, first with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014, followed by two more with Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2017.

Now turning his focus to the coaching setup, Vinay will look to guide KL Rahul-starrer Karnataka one step further after their runner-up finish last season. Their 2026–27 Ranji Trophy journey kicks off with an opening clash against Andhra on October 11.