Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), a franchise known for its strategic moves in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has set the stage for a formidable IPL 2026 campaign with a significant addition to its coaching staff.

SRH unveils their new bowling coach

Under the astute leadership of CEO Kavya Maran, the Orange Army officially announced the appointment of former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron as their new bowling coach. He replaces former New Zealand all-rounder James Franklin, who performed the role in IPL 2025.

Aaron’s appoinement, met with immediate enthusiasm from fans and cricket pundits, signals a clear intent from the SRH management to bolster its pace attack and instill a more aggressive, ‘fiery’ approach on the field, perfectly aligning with their rallying cry: #PlayWithFire.

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 induction into the coaching setup brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of fast bowling nuances. His playing career, marked by raw pace and an unwavering commitment to attacking the stumps, promises to translate into an exciting mentorship role for the team’s bowlers.

A new chapter for SRH’s pace battery

The Sunrisers have historically relied on a strong bowling unit, often being lauded for their ability to defend modest totals. However, recent seasons have seen a fluctuating performance from their pace department, prompting the management to seek fresh perspectives and renewed vigour. The appointment of Aaron appears to be a direct response to this need, aiming to inject both experience and a modern coaching philosophy into the ranks.

Varun Aaron, a name synonymous with express pace in Indian cricket, burst onto the scene with his ability to consistently clock speeds above 140 km/h. While his career was punctuated by injuries, his sheer talent and aggressive mindset were undeniable. He represented India in Tests and One Day Internationals, and his IPL journey saw him play for various franchises, including Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. This extensive exposure to different team environments and coaching styles within the IPL framework makes him an ideal candidate to guide SRH’s diverse bowling talent. Aaron’s own journey, marked by perseverance through injury, could also serve as a powerful source of inspiration and practical advice for young, aspiring fast bowlers within the SRH squad.

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Kavya Maran’s vision 

Kavya Maran, the driving force behind Sunrisers Hyderabad, has consistently demonstrated a keen eye for talent and a clear strategic vision for the franchise. Her decision to bring Varun Aaron on board underscores her commitment to building a championship-winning team from the ground up, focusing on core strengths and addressing past shortcomings. This move is not merely about filling a coaching vacancy; it’s about aligning the team’s philosophy with a coach who embodies aggression, dedication, and a deep understanding of the game’s fastest art form.

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