Delhi Capitals rope in Jonathan Batty as head coach for WPL

A couple of days before the Women’s Premier League auction in Mumbai, the Delhi Capitals franchise have named their coaching set-up, with former Surrey, Gloucestershire, and Northamptonshire wicketkeeper-batter Jonathan Batty being appointed as their head coach. Batty will be assisted by Hemlata Kala, Lisa Keightley, and Biju George. 

"It's an incredible time to be involved in Women's cricket and the WPL has the potential to transform the landscape of women's professional sport globally," Batty said in a statement.

On the women’s cricketing circuit, Batty has extensive coaching experience, having coached Oval Invincibles to the title at the women's Hundred in 2021 and 2022. He is also involved with Melbourne Stars in the WBBL and the Surrey women's side as head coach.

DC have further roped in current Sydney Thunder coach Lisa Keightley, who played nine Tests, 82 ODIs, and one T20I for Australia. Keightley was in the charge of the England Women’s team till the last



2022 ODI World Cup before stepping down in August last year. 

"I'm very excited to be involved with the Delhi Capitals and to be working with so many different players and staff from around the world. WPL is a game changer for women's sports around the world, and we have the opportunity to showcase cricket to a new audience,” Keightley said.

Hemalata Kala, who represented India in 7 Tests and 78 ODIs, has also been the chief of the national selection panel. It was during her tenure as Chief Selector that India reached the final of the ICC World Cup in 2017, a milestone moment for the women’s game in India.

“I am grateful and excited for this new role with Delhi Capitals. I am looking forward to putting together our squad ahead of the inaugural edition of the tournament, which I am confident will be a game-changer for women’s cricket,” Kala said.

The inaugural auction for the Women’s Premier League will be held on February 13th, in Mumbai.