Varun Aaron Appointed as New Bowling Coach for SunRisers Hyderabad Ahead of IPL 2026
SunRisers Hyderabad Welcomes Varun Aaron
SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has officially named Varun Aaron as their new bowling coach for the upcoming 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement was made via the team's social media platforms on Monday, July 14.
Aaron, who recently concluded his playing career, takes over from James Franklin, who served as the bowling coach for the past two seasons. Franklin had previously succeeded Dale Steyn, who stepped down for personal reasons.
This marks Aaron's entry as the third bowling coach for SRH in three years, indicating the team's ongoing efforts to find the right fit to bolster their bowling unit. With extensive experience in both international and domestic cricket, Aaron is expected to provide valuable insights, especially to the younger fast bowlers on the roster.
His appointment comes as SRH is restructuring its support staff, aiming for a strong performance in IPL 2026.
A fiery addition to our coaching staff! Welcome Varun Aaron as our new bowling coach 🔥🧡#PlayWithFire pic.twitter.com/qeg1bWntC5
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) July 14, 2025
Aaron's Journey from Player to Coach
At 35 years old, Aaron announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on January 10, 2025, following Jharkhand's exit from the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he played four matches that season.
Known for his remarkable pace, Aaron gained attention during the 2010–11 Vijay Hazare Trophy, consistently bowling at speeds exceeding 150 km/h. He represented India in 2011 but faced numerous injuries, particularly stress fractures in his back, which hampered his international career.
Despite these challenges, Aaron played 9 Tests and 9 ODIs for India, with his last appearance against South Africa in 2015. In the IPL, he showcased his talent with various teams over nine seasons, including the Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Gujarat Titans, with whom he celebrated a title victory in 2022.
In domestic cricket, Aaron boasts an impressive record, having taken 141 wickets in 88 List A matches and 93 wickets in 95 T20 games.
