The Lucknow Super Giants have made a key change ahead of IPL 2026. Abhay Sharma, 56, has been appointed as the team’s new fielding coach, replacing former South Africa star Jonty Rhodes.
The move comes after two tough seasons for LSG. The team finished seventh in both editions under captain Rishabh Pant, and the management has decided to refresh the support staff.
LSG already have a strong think tank in place. Head coach Justin Langer, Global Director of Cricket Tom Moody, and Strategic Advisor Kane Williamson are part of the setup for the new season.
Now, Abhay Sharma joins the group with a lot of experience in junior and international cricket. He was part of India’s Under 19 support staff during the 2016, 2018, and 2020 World Cups.
India won the title in 2018, and Sharma worked closely with young players who later became stars. Names like Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh, Dhruv Jurel, Avesh Khan, and Yashasvi Jaiswal were part of those squads.
Sharma has also served as India women’s fielding coach. During his stint, Harleen Deol pulled off a stunning boundary catch to dismiss Amy Jones, a moment that went viral and won praise around the world.
Most recently, Sharma was the head coach of Uganda’s men’s team. He guided them to their first-ever T20 World Cup appearance in 2024, which was a big step for the African side.
However, he parted ways with Uganda after the next African qualifiers, where Zimbabwe and Namibia secured qualification ahead of them.
For LSG, this appointment is about improving small but crucial areas. Fielding can often decide tight IPL matches, and the franchise hopes Sharma’s experience will lift standards on the ground.
With a revamped backroom team and fresh energy, LSG will look to bounce back strongly in IPL 2026. Much will depend on how quickly the new setup clicks under Pant’s leadership.