Ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, a surprising announcement erupted as renowned South African fast bowler Dale Steyn decided to step down as the bowling coach for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Steyn, who had previously opted out of IPL 2024 for personal reasons, will not be returning to the franchise’s coaching setup next year.
In a statement shared on his social media account, Steyn expressed gratitude for his time with SRH, while confirming his continued involvement with Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 league.
The former pacer has been part of the SRH coaching staff since IPL 2022, where he worked closely with the team’s bowling unit.
“A big thank you to Sunrisers Hyderabad for my few years with them as bowling coach at the IPL, unfortunately, I won’t be returning for IPL 2025. However, I will continue to work with Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 here in South Africa. Two time winners here in SA20, let’s try make it THREE in a row,” Steyn posted, referring to his role with the South African franchise that has already claimed back-to-back SA20 titles.
Cricket announcement.
A big thank you to Sunrisers Hyderabad for my few years with them as bowling coach at the IPL, unfortunately, I won’t be returning for IPL 2025.
However, I will continue to work with Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 here in South Africa. 🇿🇦Two time…
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) October 16, 2024
James Franklin To Step In As SRH Bowling Coach
For IPL 2024, former New Zealand cricketer James Franklin stepped in as SRH’s bowling coach, working alongside head coach Daniel Vettori.
Under their leadership, SRH had a remarkable season, finishing as runners-up to Kolkata Knight Riders, who were led by Australian Test captain Pat Cummins.
During his tenure with SRH, Steyn played a pivotal role in the development of several young fast bowlers, most notably Umran Malik.
Malik’s rapid rise from a domestic talent to an international cricketer for India has been attributed, in part, to Steyn’s mentorship.
Under Steyn’s guidance, the SRH pace attack became a formidable unit, with several bowlers going on to make a significant impact in both domestic and international cricket.
Steyn’s impact on the IPL as a player was also significant.
Over the course of his illustrious playing career, he donned the jerseys of Deccan Chargers, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gujarat Lions, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, taking 97 wickets in 95 matches.
His transition into coaching marked a new chapter for the legendary fast bowler, who had been lauded for his deep understanding of the game and ability to nurture young talent.
With Steyn’s departure from SRH, the franchise will look ahead to the 2025 season with a new bowling coach.
Meanwhile, Steyn’s legacy within the franchise – both as a player and a coach – will continue to resonate.
Fans will now be keen to see if he can lead Sunrisers Eastern Cape to a third consecutive SA20 title in South Africa.
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