October 17, 2024: Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn has officially parted ways with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ahead of the 2025 IPL season, ending his tenure as the franchise’s bowling coach.
Steyn joined SRH’s coaching staff in late 2021 under then head coach Tom Moody. However, after Moody’s departure and subsequent changes in coaching leadership, Steyn decided to step down. He did not participate in the 2024 IPL due to personal reasons, and James Franklin, the former New Zealand pacer, filled in as his replacement for that season.
Steyn announced his decision on X (formerly Twitter), thanking SRH for the opportunity and confirming that he would not return for the 2025 IPL season. However, he also revealed that he would continue working with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape franchise in the SA20 league, where he has helped the team secure consecutive championship titles in 2023 and 2024.
During his playing career, Steyn represented multiple IPL franchises, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bangalore, the Deccan Chargers, and the now-defunct Gujarat Lions.
Meanwhile, SRH is making significant moves behind the scenes, particularly with player retention. Heinrich Klaasen, who was one of SRH’s standout performers, will receive a substantial contract worth Rs 23 crore (approximately US$2.74 million). The team also confirmed retention deals for Pat Cummins, the Australian all-rounder and captain in 2024, at Rs 18 crore (approximately US$2.14 million), and Indian all-rounder Abhishek Sharma at Rs 14 crore (approximately US$1.67 million).
Under head coach Daniel Vettori, SRH made a significant leap by reaching the 2024 IPL final, their first since 2018, but they ultimately fell short, losing to Kolkata Knight Riders.
