Dale Steyn will not be joining the coaching team of SunRisers Hyderabad for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), as per information obtained by Cricpulse.
The South African pace legend has requested a break from IPL duties this year, with plans to potentially return next season, pending necessary arrangements.
The 40-year-old, renowned for his exploits across 93 Tests, 125 ODIs, and 47 T20Is, has conveyed his unavailability to the franchise management.
Consequently, the franchise has commenced the search for a new bowling coach, with an announcement imminent.
The responsibility of appointing a new bowling coach now rests with coach Daniel Vettori, who is reportedly scouting for suitable candidates.
Despite inquiries, neither Vettori nor Steyn has responded to queries on this matter.
Steyn, having previously represented both Deccan Chargers (now defunct) and Sunrisers Hyderabad as a player, returned to Hyderabad as a bowling coach in 2022 after a brief stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
His influence was notable in the development of Umran Malik, who recently earned a fast bowler contract from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
In other news, there’s anticipation surrounding the appointment of Pat Cummins as the new skipper for the upcoming season.
The Australian captain, acquired for Rs 20.5 crore in the last auction, is esteemed in international cricket.
The relationship between Cummins and franchise head coach Vettori, stemming from their collaboration in the Australian national team, enhances Cummins’ prospects for captaincy.
Aiden Markram led the side in 2023 without significant success, although his successful leadership of SunRisers Eastern Cape, a franchise subsidiary during the SA20, adds weight to his credentials.
Despite his limited IPL achievements, Cummins’ international accolades, including contributions to Australia’s victories in the World Test Championship (WTC) and World Cup, may sway the management’s decision in favor of his leadership.
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