IPL 2024: James Franklin replaces Dale Steyn as SRH bowling coach

In a recent development ahead of the upcoming IPL season, former New Zealand all-rounder James Franklin is set to take over the reins as the bowling coach for Sunrisers Hyderabad, stepping in for Dale Steyn. The news comes as Steyn, who was initially appointed to the role in 2022, decided to withdraw due to personal reasons.

Franklin, renowned for his left-arm seam-bowling prowess during his playing days, will be making his coaching debut in the IPL with this new role at Sunrisers. Having previously showcased his skills with the Mumbai Indians in 2011 and 2012, Franklin brings a wealth of experience to the coaching table.

Teaming up with head coach Daniel Vettori, Franklin aims to bolster Sunrisers' bowling unit. The duo has a history of collaboration, having worked together at Middlesex in county cricket and Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. Franklin, who also served as the head coach at Durham, is currently contributing as an assistant coach at Islamabad United in the PSL.

Sunrisers, with a formidable lineup of quicks including Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Pat Cummins, and emerging talents like Umran Malik, face a crucial season under the leadership of Aiden Markram. The team's recent struggles, finishing eighth in 2022 and slipping further to tenth last year, pose a challenge for the coaching staff.

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A significant factor contributing to Sunrisers' setback has been the frequent change in leadership. The departure of Tom Moody in favour of Brian Lara last season raised eyebrows, only for Lara to be dropped after just one season. The release of stalwart Kane Williamson ahead of the 2023 player auction marked the end of an era, leaving Markram to steer the ship.

With the upcoming IPL season on the horizon, the spotlight is now on Franklin and Vettori as they strive to guide Sunrisers Hyderabad back to their former glory. The coaching duo faces the formidable task of reviving the team's fortunes and instilling stability after fluctuating leadership and performance.