The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly made a key decision ahead of the high-stakes England tour - bringing back T Dilip as Team India's fielding coach.

His previous contract ended in March 2025, and there were strong indications that the board might move on. However, after exploring overseas options for nearly two months, the BCCI has decided to rehire Dilip on a one-year contract.

A BCCI official told The Indian Express, “We’ve decided to bring back Dilip as the fielding coach for another year. He will travel with the team to England. His earlier tenure was also on a one-year basis.”

Why T Dilip's return is a big boost

Dilip first joined India's coaching setup in late 2021 alongside head coach Rahul Dravid. Since then, India's fielding standards have improved significantly - something that stood out during the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup. Dilip is also credited with starting the popular “Best Fielder” medal after each match, which injected enthusiasm and competitiveness into the dressing room.

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly praised Dilip, particularly for the marked improvement in slip catching - a critical skill in conditions like England, where swing and seam dominate.

India is set to leave for the England tour in mid-June for a five-Test series. On pitches that test technique and reflexes, BCCI's faith in Dilip's experience and expertise could play a major role in India's quest for overseas success.

India's 2025 tour of England includes a five-Test series for the prestigious Pataudi Trophy, forming a key part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle. The series is scheduled from June 20 to August 4, taking place at some of England's most iconic cricket venues.