Former India Pacer Varun Aaron Appointed Bowling Coach of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2026
In a strategic move aimed at revamping their bowling attack, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have named Varun Aaron as their new bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The 35-year-old former Indian speedster replaces James Franklin, the ex-New Zealand pacer who served in the role during IPL 2025.
SRH welcomed Aaron with a social media post on Monday, stating:
“A fiery addition to our coaching staff! Welcome Varun Aaron as our new bowling coach.”
From Express Pacer to Mentor
Aaron, who played 9 Tests and 9 ODIs for India between 2011 and 2015, was once regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in the country, clocking speeds over 150 kmph. He made his last professional appearance in January 2025 for Jharkhand during the Vijay Hazare Trophy before quietly hanging up his boots after Jharkhand failed to reach the knockout stages.
Despite a career hindered by recurring injuries, Aaron’s raw pace and competitive attitude earned him early international recognition. Although he couldn’t translate his early promise into a long run with Team India, his insights and experience now hold immense value in the coaching circuit. Post-retirement, Aaron transitioned into TV commentary before taking up this coaching assignment with SRH.
Tough Season Behind for SRH
Sunrisers Hyderabad will be hoping Aaron’s inclusion can provide a much-needed boost to their bowling unit after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign. The team, despite a blazing start — including a record-breaking 286-run innings — lacked consistency and ended 6th on the points table with 13 points.
Batting failures from stars like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, and Heinrich Klaasen, along with Ishan Kishan’s inconsistency, led to collapses in crucial games. The middle order lacked fight, and SRH failed to build on their early-season momentum.
On the bowling front, they were severely hit by form and fitness issues. Mohammed Shami’s dip in rhythm, Adam Zampa’s injury, and the ineffectiveness of their spin attack on slower pitches cost them dearly. Tactically, the team struggled to find the right combinations throughout the season.
A New Chapter
With Varun Aaron coming in as bowling coach, SRH will aim to build a more potent and disciplined bowling attack. His experience with modern fast-bowling challenges and insight into injury management could prove vital in nurturing young Indian talent and reviving the form of experienced pacers in the squad.
The franchise will hope Aaron’s appointment is the first step toward scripting a comeback in IPL 2026.
