Ryan ten Doeschate set to exit India coaching role after Lord's ODI
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate is reportedly set to depart the national team's support staff following the conclusion of the ongoing England tour, with the third and final ODI on 19 July at Lord's Cricket Ground expected to be his last assignment. The former Netherlands all-rounder has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his wish to step down, though the final decision rests with head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Why ten Doeschate Is Leaving
According to reports, the departure is driven entirely by personal reasons rather than any fallout over India's mixed results in the recent England and Ireland T20I series. Ten Doeschate, who has three young sons, is said to want more time with his family, which is based in London. The extensive travel demands of the India coaching role are believed to be incompatible with his domestic responsibilities, particularly given that his wife is currently working.
Notably, his initial contract with the BCCI is understood to have concluded around 12–14 July, making this a natural exit point rather than a mid-term resignation.
His Role in the Indian Setup
Ten Doeschate joined India's coaching staff approximately two years ago, brought in on the recommendation of Gautam Gambhir after the latter took charge as head coach. His primary area of expertise is fielding, but with T. Dilip already serving as India's dedicated fielding coach, his precise contribution within the setup was reportedly not fully defined.
Despite this ambiguity, ten Doeschate is said to share a close personal and professional bond with Gambhir — a relationship that was central to his original appointment.
India's Fielding Concerns
India's fielding was a widely noted weakness during the recently concluded England series, with dropped catches drawing particular scrutiny. However, fielding coach T. Dilip is expected to continue in his role as the team works to address those lapses ahead of upcoming assignments.
What Happens Next
Gambhir's approval is still awaited to formalise ten Doeschate's exit, according to reports. The BCCI is likely to assess whether a replacement assistant coach is needed or whether the existing support structure will be reorganised. With a packed international calendar ahead, the composition of India's backroom staff will be closely watched.