Former India fast bowler Varun Aaron has been appointed as the SRH’s bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season. He will be replacing James Franklin, and the side officially announced the news in a social post on July 14.

Varun retired from all forms of cricket at the age of 35 on January 10, 2025, after Jharkhand’s exit from the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he featured in four matches.

“For the past 20 years, I have lived, breathed, and thrived on the rush of bowling fast. Today, with immense gratitude, I officially announce my retirement from representative cricket. Fast bowling has been my first love, and though I step off the field, it will always be a part of who I am,” said Aaron Varun.

Aaron was onto the cricketing scene in 2010s at Vijay Hazare Trophy, however his career was full of recurring injuries, particularly stress fractures of the back.

“A fiery addition to our coaching staff! Welcome Varun Aaron as our new bowling coach,” the SRH announced on their X account.

Despite the setbacks, Aaron has 18 caps (nine in Tests and Nine in ODIs) with his international appearance coming in November 2015 against South Africa in Bengaluru.

In domestic cricket, Aaron played 88 List A matches, taking 141 wickets at an average of 26.47 and an economy rate of 5.44. In T20s, he claimed 93 wickets across 95 games, with an economy rates of 8.53.

Aaron also had a nine-season stint in the IPL, representing Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Gujarat Titans, where he won the title in 2022.

Although his contribution was less, he had many memorable moments in India’s domestic and T20 leagues.