New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) Bharat Arun has been instrumental in developing India's fast-bowling unit during two terms as the team’s bowling coach, contributing to several remarkable Test victories, particularly in challenging overseas environments. With the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on March 28, Arun embraces a new role as the bowling coach for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Attracted to LSG due to its promising pace bowling lineup, which features a strong contingent of Indian talent, Arun believes these bowlers are capable of making it to the national team. In an exclusive interview with IANS, he discussed his transition to LSG, the wealth of Indian pace bowling talent, his coaching methodology, and the intricacies of managing bowlers recovering from injuries. Here are some highlights:

Q. What enticed you to leave KKR after four years and join LSG?

A. It's clear that my role here is more significant than what I had at KKR, especially given the presence of exciting Indian fast bowlers. We have more than six exceptionally talented Indian pacers who can potentially represent the nation.

Being able to mentor this talent and assist them in reaching their potential is an exhilarating challenge for me. I thrive on such challenges, which is why I made the move to Lucknow.

Q. Rishabh Pant mentioned in a broadcaster's video that bowlers 'trust you and feel comfortable around you.' In a franchise setup where time is limited, how do you quickly establish that trust?

A. Building trust is indeed the foremost challenge for coaches. Coaching can only commence once that trust is established. Connecting with players is vital, as every individual has different mindsets and aspirations.

The faster I comprehend their mental frameworks, the better I can connect, which leads to effective coaching. Once that connection is forged, the process becomes smoother, enabling players to unlock their full potential.

Q. LSG’s pace attack boasts names like Shami, Nortje, Mayank, and Mohsin, but many are returning from injuries. How do you handle their workloads?

A. Acknowledging that most bowlers are coming off injuries, we organized a pre-season camp a month prior to our gathering in Lucknow to evaluate their conditions. Workload management is a collaborative effort involving myself, the physiotherapist, and the strength and conditioning coach.

We collectively assess each bowler's physical condition and assign appropriate training programs. Thankfully, most bowlers who faced fitness challenges have returned in great shape for this season.

Q. With Mayank Yadav coming back after a long injury, what psychological hurdles does he face, and how do you support him?

A. Absolutely. Mayank hasn't bowled in almost two years. For a bowler who can deliver 150-plus speeds, overcoming the mental barrier after such a lengthy absence is tough.

He must avoid the pressure of immediately returning to his peak speed; instead, he should focus on regaining confidence. Presently, he’s bowling with impressive rhythm at around 140, which is a healthy pace. As he builds confidence, his speed will naturally improve.

Q. Having worked closely with Mohammed Shami in the national team, what is it like to collaborate with him again at LSG?

A. Shami and I share a unique bond from our seven years together in the Indian team. I’ve known him even longer, which has only deepened our connection. I am excited to work with Shami again, as I am well aware of his capabilities—he’s undoubtedly among the finest bowlers in the world today.

Q. How does coaching in the IPL differ from working with pacers over a longer international cycle?

A. I prefer not to view my coaching role as limited to just two months. It’s about cultivating relationships that extend beyond the IPL season. While the IPL is crucial, most bowlers will remain with us throughout the year, and I am available to assist them whenever they are prepared. This ongoing support is essential.

Q. Your responsibilities at LSG also include scouting and long-term development. How does this continuity benefit young players like Prince and Akash?

A. These young bowlers are indeed exciting prospects and require consistent monitoring. Each bowler has a unique style, yet the fundamentals of fast bowling remain unchanged. My challenge is to understand each bowler's technique and guide them towards mastering the basics.

This ongoing process not only involves technical growth but also tactical development, enabling bowlers to learn how to execute various deliveries effectively. The IPL is a chance to refine their strengths, while we can focus on additional skills post-tournament.

Q. After a challenging 2025 season for LSG’s pace unit, how confident are you in the performance of both young and seasoned bowlers this season?

A. We have a balance of experience and youth. With seasoned bowlers like Anrich Nortje and Mohammed Shami, coupled with promising talents like Prince Yadav, Avesh Khan, and Mohsin Khan, the pace attack appears robust.

The entire pace bowling setup is in excellent health, with each bowler bringing unique qualities. The crucial challenge will be aligning their strengths with the team’s objectives and maximizing their performance.