New Delhi: Former English skipper Kevin Pietersen confirmed on Saturday, March 14 that he is stepping down from the role of Delhi Capitals mentor ahead
of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The 19th edition of the cash-rich league will begin on March 28 and last till May 31, with schedule up to April 12 released by the Indian cricket board.
In the first match of the season, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be up against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Pietersen took to his social media handle on Saturday confirming the decision and also revealing the reason behind him stepping down.
Can’t give enough time the job requires: Pietersen
‘I cannot be the mentor for Delhi Capitals this IPL season. I cannot give the time that the job requires. Best wishes to all the players for this season! “However, I’ll see you back in the commentary box. IPL is the world’s best league and I can’t wait to see you all soon!,’ Pietersen said on X in a post written in Hindi.
🚨 समाचार 🚨
मैं आईपीएल के इस सीजन में दिल्ली कैपिटल्स के लिए मेंटर नहीं बन सकता।
मैं उस समय के लिए प्रतिबद्ध नहीं हो सकता, जो काम की आवश्यकता है।
सभी खिलाड़ियों को इस सीजन के लिए शुभकामनाएं! ❤️
हालांकि मैं आपको कॉम बॉक्स में वापस देखूंगा! आईपीएल दुनिया की सबसे अच्छी लीग है…
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) March 14, 2026
Meanwhile Delhi Capitals, who are still searching for the maiden title, will start their IPL 2026 season against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in an away game in Lucknow on April 1. DC’s first game at home is against the Mumbai Indians on April 4.
Pietersen, who has played for three teams across five IPL seasons, was appointed as DC’s mentor before the start of the 2025 edition. He has also represented the erstwhile Delhi Daredevils franchise.
