Thane (Maharashtra) [India], May 26: The Eagle Thane Strikers on Tuesday announced former India bowler Dhawal Kulkarni as the Head Coach for the upcoming season of the T20 Mumbai League 2026.
A seasoned campaigner in domestic and international cricket, Dhawal Kulkarni brings with him vast experience and deep understanding of Mumbai cricket as Eagle Thane Strikers aim to make a strong impact.
The franchise, which reached the semifinals in the previous edition, will look to go one step further this year under the guidance of Dhawal Kulkarni alongside a talented squad featuring experienced India all-rounder Shardul Thakur and emerging young players.
Speaking after being appointed as Head Coach, Dhawal Kulkarni expressed his excitement about joining the setup and working with the squad ahead of the tournament.
“Experience has been great so far and I am enjoying the time here. Everyone is excited and determined to give their best for the team. We have tried to create an atmosphere where the players can take ownership and play a fearless brand of cricket,” said Dhawal Kulkarni.
Sharing his approach for the upcoming campaign, the former India bowler added, “Our strategy would be to focus on the preparation and keep things simple. We want to take one game at a time and stay in the present.”
Earlier, Eagle Thane Strikers batter Sairaj Patil had stated that the team’s primary goal this season is to win the T20 Mumbai League title after narrowly missing out on a place in the final last year.
The T20 Mumbai League 2026 is scheduled to be held from June 1 to 13, with Eagle Thane Strikers set to begin their campaign against Bandra Blasters in the opening fixture of the tournament.
Eagle Thane Strikers squad
Aditya Vinod Giri, Amartya Raje, Anuj Vinod Giri, Atharav Ankolekar, Ayaan Mohit Jain, Eknath Dinesh Kerkar, Kartik Mithilesh Mishra, Manan Bhat, Onkar Tukaram Tarmale, Rohan Rajendra Ghag, Sairaj Patil, Shardul Thakur, Shashikant Eknath Kadam, Shashwat Yogesh Jagtap
