Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn will not be part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) coaching staff for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Steyn has requested a break from his coaching responsibilities, prompting the franchise to search for a replacement bowling coach.
Steyn’s departure comes after a successful stint with SRH, where he played a pivotal role in the development of young speedster Umran Malik. Malik has since earned an India cap in T20Is and ODIs, and recently received a fast-bowling contract from the BCCI.
Despite his absence, Steyn is expected to return to the franchise next season if all necessary arrangements are met. SRH has already appointed former New Zealand left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori as their new head coach.
The franchise is also considering appointing Pat Cummins as their captain for the upcoming season. Cummins, who was acquired for a whopping INR 20.5 crore in the auction last year, has led Australia to victory in the 2023 World Test Championship and Men’s ODI World Cup.
SRH, who finished at the bottom of the points table last year, will be hoping for a turnaround under Vettori and Cummins’ leadership. They will open their 2024 campaign on March 23 against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens, followed by their first home match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on March 27 against Mumbai Indians.
