In a notable off-season move, Abhay Sharma is reported to be joining the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as their new fielding coach ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, replacing South African great Jonty Rhodes. The decision marks a significant shift in the franchise’s backroom setup as they aim to strengthen their technical core following inconsistent fielding performances in the previous campaign.
According to reports from franchise sources, negotiations with Sharma have reached an advanced stage, and an official announcement is expected soon. Rhodes, who had been associated with LSG since the team’s inception in 2022, is understood to be stepping away due to scheduling conflicts and new international commitments. His departure ends a fruitful tenure that saw the franchise consistently among the better fielding sides in the early IPL seasons.
Abhay Sharma, 54, brings a wealth of experience from Indian domestic and international cricket structures. A former wicketkeeper-batter, he has been one of the most respected fielding and support coaches in the country. Over the years, he has worked with India A, the India Under-19 teams, and the senior women’s side, earning praise for his structured yet flexible coaching methods. His work in improving catching efficiency and ground fielding standards in the India A setup was particularly lauded by several players who have since transitioned to the national team.
Sharma’s appointment is seen as part of LSG’s broader plan to refine their fundamentals after a mixed 2025 season, where lapses in fielding directly contributed to a few close defeats. The team, led by KL Rahul, had moments of brilliance but often struggled with dropped catches and misfields in crunch situations. The management reportedly wants to address these aspects ahead of a critical season as the franchise eyes its first IPL title.
An LSG source commented, “Abhay Sharma’s track record with developing young players and building fielding discipline is exceptional. The franchise values his eye for detail and his ability to work with players individually. His methods are data-driven but also practical — something that fits perfectly into the franchise’s culture.”
Rhodes’ departure, however, will be felt deeply. A legend of the game, Rhodes was credited with raising the athletic standards of the LSG squad and instilling professionalism in their training environment. KL Rahul and head coach Justin Langer (who took over earlier this year) have publicly praised Rhodes’ influence, calling him “a mentor and motivator beyond the technical role.”
For Abhay Sharma, this will be his first direct coaching stint in the IPL, although he has been involved with several India A tours alongside players who form the backbone of many IPL franchises. His appointment also signals a trend of IPL teams increasingly turning to Indian specialists for key coaching roles — a move driven by deeper local expertise and year-round availability.
With the Lucknow Super Giants aiming to bounce back from a turbulent season, Sharma’s arrival represents both continuity and change — a blend of proven coaching pedigree and the fresh energy of an evolving backroom vision.
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