Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has been named as Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) new head coach for the next two IPL seasons.

Earlier this year, RCB roped in Bangar as a batting consultant and now his post has been elevated by the management. He will be taking over the reins from Mike Hesson.

Hesson, who remains with the team in his existing job as Director of Cricket Operations, had performed the additional role of head coach during the IPL 2021 second leg after Simon Katich stepped down due to personal reasons.

“Today we have appointed Sanjay Bangar as head coach of the RCB for next two years,” Hesson said in a video posted by RCB’s official Twitter handle on Tuesday (November 9).

“Sanjay is highly respected as a coach, primarily known as a batting coach, he certainly has far more expertise than just that.

“Sanjay is very good at building relationships with the players and support staff, he does that through his expert knowledge, which is a key element we are looking for in terms of growing and developing our group so we are title contenders,” he added.

Sanjay Bangar has previously served Team India as a batting coach. He was associated with the national team from 2014 to 2019 in multiple stints. His contract was not renewed by the BCCI after India’s exit from the World Cup 2019 semi-final.

Talking about his new role at RCB, Bangar said, “I have worked with some exceptional and talented members in the squad and can’t wait to take this team to the next level. “There’s a lot of work that needs to be done with the IPL Mega Auctions and the season following it, but I’m sure that together with the continued support of the management and the support staff, we can deliver the goods and bring cheer to our fans across the globe.”

Commenting on Bangar’s appointment, RCB Chairman Prathmesh Mishra said: “RCB has been committed to its philosophy of supporting and grooming talents from within the team and appointing Sanjay Bangar is the reflection of that belief.”

“Sanjay Bangar has been part of our support staff as a batting consultant and brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and batting coach, having worked extensively with the Indian cricket team.

“We are confident that he will be able to bring his experience to the fore and maximize the potential of the squad,” he added.