Bharat Arun ditches CSK to join Lucknow Super Giants at the last minute
Lucknow Super Giants Appoint Bharat Arun as Bowling Coach for IPL 2026
In a significant development, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have announced the signing of former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun as their new bowling coach for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026). Arun, who played a crucial role in shaping India’s top-notch bowling attack, has reportedly inked a two-year deal with the Lucknow-based franchise.
Having recently guided Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to an IPL title in 2024, Arun’s arrival marks a major shake-up in Lucknow Super Giants’ coaching staff as they gear up for the next season. With a proven track record of nurturing bowling talent, Arun is expected to bring his expertise to help strengthen LSG’s bowling unit.
Changes in Coaching Staff
It is rumored that Zaheer Khan, who served as LSG’s mentor in the previous season, is unlikely to return to the franchise as his one-year contract ended after IPL 2025. The former Indian fast bowler’s future with the team remains uncertain as his contract is reportedly under review. Additionally, LSG head coach Justin Langer is also facing doubts about continuing his role following a mixed two-year stint in the IPL.
With the franchise looking to revamp under new leadership, Arun’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to work closely with LSG bowlers not only during the IPL season but also throughout the year. A report from Cricbuzz confirms that Arun has committed to a two-year deal with the Sanjiv Goenka-owned side, highlighting his long-term commitment to the team.
Kolkata Knight Riders Part Ways with Bharat Arun
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially bid farewell to bowling coach Bharat Arun, following the exit of head coach Chandrakant Pandit. This decision leaves two major coaching positions open in the three-time IPL champions’ camp. Despite Arun’s departure, KKR is expected to follow a rigorous selection process to fill the vacant coaching roles.
Known for grooming coaching talent, KKR has a history of nurturing coaches who have gone on to secure prominent roles in international cricket. While Arun’s exit from the KKR setup was an amicable one, the decision was mutual as both parties felt that streamlining the coaching staff would benefit the team.
LSG’s Bid for Redemption in IPL 2026
As LSG aims for a strong comeback in IPL 2026, the team is banking on Arun’s expertise to bolster their bowling department. Reuniting with LSG captain Rishabh Pant and fast bowler Avesh Khan, Arun is set to play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for success in the upcoming season.
After a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, where Lucknow Super Giants finished seventh on the points table, the team is determined to rectify their mistakes and bounce back stronger. With key pacers like Mayank Yadav, Akash Deep, and Avesh Khan plagued by injuries last season, LSG faced challenges in their bowling department, resulting in a subpar performance.
With Bharat Arun on board as their new bowling coach, Lucknow Super Giants are poised to build a formidable bowling attack and make a splash in the upcoming IPL season.
Impact of Bharat Arun’s Coaching Style
Bharat Arun is known for his meticulous approach to coaching and his ability to extract the best out of bowlers. His emphasis on fitness, skill development, and mental toughness has been instrumental in shaping some of India’s finest bowling talents. With his vast experience at the international level, Arun brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, which can benefit Lucknow Super Giants immensely.
One of Arun’s strengths lies in his knack for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of individual bowlers and tailoring training programs to enhance their performance. His focus on building a cohesive bowling unit that works in tandem to execute plans effectively could be a game-changer for LSG in the upcoming season.
Revamping Lucknow Super Giants’ Bowling Strategy
With Bharat Arun at the helm, Lucknow Super Giants have the opportunity to overhaul their bowling strategy and create a more potent attack. Arun’s expertise in analyzing match situations, devising tactics, and mentoring young bowlers can elevate LSG’s overall performance on the field.
Moreover, Arun’s presence could instill a sense of discipline and professionalism within the bowling unit, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability. His strategic inputs during match scenarios and his ability to keep the bowlers calm under pressure could be pivotal in LSG’s quest for redemption in IPL 2026.
The Transition from KKR to LSG
For Bharat Arun, the move from Kolkata Knight Riders to Lucknow Super Giants represents a new chapter in his coaching career. While his departure from KKR was amicable, the shift to LSG offers Arun a fresh challenge and an opportunity to make a significant impact with a different franchise.
As Arun settles into his role as the bowling coach for Lucknow Super Giants, he will bring his wealth of experience from working with top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the table. His ability to foster talent and groom young bowlers could be a game-changer for LSG as they strive to climb up the IPL rankings.
Building Team Chemistry and Cohesion
Aside from technical skills, Bharat Arun’s role in fostering team chemistry and cohesion cannot be understated. By creating a harmonious environment within the bowling unit, Arun can help LSG’s bowlers work together seamlessly, understand each other’s strengths, and complement each other’s styles.
His leadership qualities and ability to motivate players could be instrumental in bringing out the best in Lucknow Super Giants’ bowling contingent. As the team aims for a fresh start in IPL 2026, the synergy between Arun and the bowlers could be the catalyst for a successful campaign.
Looking Ahead to IPL 2026
With Bharat Arun’s appointment as the bowling coach, Lucknow Super Giants are poised for a transformation in their bowling department. As the franchise gears up for the challenges of IPL 2026, the synergy between Arun, the coaching staff, and the players will be crucial in shaping LSG’s performance on the field.
As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Bharat Arun’s coaching acumen influences Lucknow Super Giants’ bowling unit and propels them towards a competitive showing in the IPL.


