Sunrisers HyderabadCoaching Updatescricket coachingCricket NewsIndian Premier LeagueIPLIPL 2025IPL 2026IPL and Franchise CricketIPL NewsIPL UpdatesVarun Aaron
Varun Aaron Appointed Bowling Coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2026
Former India Pacer Begins New Coaching Journey with SRH
Sunrisers Hyderabad have announced former India fast bowler Varun Aaron as their new bowling coach ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The 35-year-old, known for his raw pace and aggressive bowling in the 2010s, replaces James Franklin in the coaching setup. This marks Aaron’s first major coaching role after announcing his retirement from all forms of representative cricket earlier this year.
A Speedster’s Journey: From Jharkhand to the Coaching Arena
Hailing from Jharkhand, Varun Aaron burst onto the scene with his express pace, earning praise for being one of the fastest bowlers in India’s ranks during his peak. Aaron featured in 18 international matches (9 Tests and 9 ODIs) and picked up 29 international wickets. His domestic and IPL career spanned over a decade, during which he played for franchises like Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Rajasthan Royals.
IPL Experience and Commentary Stint
Aaron’s IPL journey began in 2011, and over nine seasons until 2022, he collected 44 wickets at an economy rate of 8.93. Known for his ability to generate bounce and movement at high speeds, Aaron was often considered a strike bowler despite recurring injuries. After retiring, he transitioned briefly into cricket commentary before being handed the reins of SRH’s bowling department.
SRH’s Bowling Struggles in IPL 2025
The decision to bring in Aaron comes after a disappointing 2025 season for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite entering the tournament as the 2024 runners-up, SRH slumped to a sixth-place finish. Although they kicked off the season with the highest team total of IPL 2025 — 286 for 6 against Rajasthan Royals — their bowling unit consistently faltered, failing to defend totals and contain run flow throughout the season.
Coaching Changes in the Camp
Sunrisers had James Franklin, the former New Zealand all-rounder, as their bowling coach for two consecutive seasons (2024 and 2025). Franklin had stepped in after Dale Steyn withdrew from the role in early 2024 due to personal reasons. Franklin is now expected to transition to a different role within the SRH support staff, while Aaron takes over the responsibility of reviving the bowling department.
For more on Sunrisers Hyderabad’s performance and coaching changes, check out our SRH team updates archive.
Looking Ahead to IPL 2026
Sunrisers Hyderabad will hope that Varun Aaron’s recent playing experience and sharp tactical insights bring fresh energy to their bowling setup. With young Indian pacers and a blend of international quicks in their ranks, Aaron’s mentorship could be pivotal in turning around the franchise’s bowling performance next season.
According to ESPNcricinfo, SRH management believes that Aaron’s modern-day understanding of the T20 format and his recent experience in the IPL circuit can help the team plug gaps and execute better under pressure.
