|| CF DESK ||

Former New Zealand James Franklin all-rounder has been appointed as the new bowling coach of Surisers Hyderabad for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

According to Cricinfo, Franklin will join Daniel Vettori in the coaching panel of SRH after Dale Steyn, who joined SRH in 2022 opted out of IPL 2024.

Franklin had earlier served as a head coach at Durham and is currently working as an assistant coach at Islamabad United in PSL 2024. The duo of Franklin and Vettori has previously worked together for Middlesex in county cricket and Birmingham Phoenix, at the Hundred.

Steyn decided to take a break from his bowling coach duties due to personal reasons. The renowned South African fast-bowling icon has sought approval for a hiatus from IPL commitments and planning tol make a comeback in the following season.

Steyn was appointed the SRH bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2022 season. He has been credited for nurturing India pace sensation Umran Malik, and transforming him into an international cricketer. The youngster recently earned a BCCI contract.

Meanwhile, Pat Cummins was named as the new Sunrisers Hyderabad captain ahead of the IPL 2024 season.

Cummins' solid record as Australia captain, and his association with Vettori, who is also part of the Australian coaching setup, further enhanced his chances.

His outstanding international achievements, such as his role in Australia's success in the World Test Championship (WTC) and World Cup against India, may sway the management's decision to trust his leadership.