India's coaching setup to change even after trouncing Bazball? One of India's fastest bowlers takes up a new role

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron is poised to embark on a new journey, taking on a mentorship role for emerging fast bowlers. Varun Aaron will collaborate with legendary pacer and head coach Glenn McGrath at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai for the development of new Indian pacers.

The MRF Pace Foundation recently hosted ‘Ace of Pace’, drawing over 4,000 applicants nationwide, with 1,000 selected for trials. Subsequently, approximately 100 pacers attended, with three talented Indian fast bowlers chosen for training at the Chennai-based academy.

Glenn McGrath recently emphasized that the academy’s sole focus is on fast bowling, preparing bowlers for all formats of the game. He underscored the significance of mindset, adaptability to different conditions, and independent thinking for aspiring fast bowlers.

Varun Aaron To Assume Mentor Role For New Indian Fast Bowlers

Varun Aaron emerged as a rare speedster in India where the culture of fast bowling was scarce. Hailing from Jharkhand, he captured attention with his consistent pace. He represented the national team in Tests and ODIs during his brief international career.

Aaron retired from first-class cricket after Jharkhand defeated Rajasthan by 89 runs in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24. However, he confirmed his commitment to participating in shorter-format tournaments such as the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy.

In his last first-class match, 34-year-old Aaron took five wickets, including a four-wicket haul. Across 66 first-class matches, he picked up 173 wickets, inclusive of six five-wicket hauls. Aaron also represented India in nine Tests, claiming 18 wickets from 2011 to 2015.

MRF Pace Foundation Has Played A Huge Role In My Career – Varun Aaron

Earlier this week, Aaron reflected on his selection for the Pace Foundation at the age of 14, highlighting this rare opportunity as pivotal in shaping his path towards becoming a Test cricketer. He also expressed his admiration for legendary Dennis Lillee.

“The MRF Pace Foundation has played a huge role in my career and I would say Dennis Lillee has played the biggest role because just for example I got selected to the Pace Foundation when I was 14 years old you know and generally you don’t get picked at that young. I would say Dennis Lilly and MRF stuck with me for five years and that’s when I played for the country to be honest I’m the last Test Cricketer fast Bowler from MRF who was a full-time trainee,” Aaron said.

“Dennis Lillee is definitely the biggest influence in my career. Spending time with him growing up with him, I think growing up literally mean growing up because I was 14 to 18 when I was with him,” he added.

Also read: MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli! Varun Aaron compares the leadership style of Indian greats