REPORTS: Bharat Arun Likely to Join Chennai Super Kings as Bowling Coach for IPL 2026
Bharat Arun, known for playing a key role in developing India's formidable pace attack during his tenure as India’s bowling coach from 2014 to 2021, brings with him a wealth of experience and technical expertise. Under his guidance, India saw the emergence of a world-class pace battery, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, and Umesh Yadav.
A Strategic Move by CSK
After a mixed season in IPL 2025, CSK management appears to be focusing on bolstering their coaching staff. With Dwayne Bravo currently serving as bowling coach, it is unclear whether he will continue in that capacity or take on a different role within the setup. Bringing in someone of Bharat Arun’s caliber suggests the franchise is aiming to further sharpen their bowling unit, especially with a number of young domestic bowlers in their squad.
A source close to the development stated,
“The talks with Bharat Arun are in advanced stages. He has always had a good relationship with senior CSK members and is keen on returning to coaching in the IPL.”
Arun’s Track Record
Bharat Arun's achievements during his stint with Team India are noteworthy. He played a pivotal role during India’s historic back-to-back Test series wins in Australia (2018-19 and 2020-21), where India’s fast bowling stood out despite injuries and overseas challenges. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, conditioning, and tactical awareness—traits that CSK would value highly as they work with emerging talents.
In the IPL, Arun had previously worked with Royal Challengers Bangalore before joining the Indian national setup. If confirmed, this will be his first stint with CSK, one of the most successful and strategically savvy teams in IPL history.
CSK Eyeing Fresh Chapter
With speculation growing around leadership changes and the future roadmap of the team post-MS Dhoni, CSK seems to be planning meticulously for IPL 2026. The inclusion of experienced names like Bharat Arun could signal a move toward developing a long-term core, especially with an eye on nurturing bowlers for the next 3–5 seasons.
The official announcement is expected soon, and fans are already expressing excitement about the potential of seeing Arun shape the likes of Matheesha Pathirana, Tushar Deshpande, and Mukesh Choudhary.
Final Word
While the deal is yet to be confirmed officially, Bharat Arun’s entry into the CSK dugout would certainly be seen as a major strategic move—one that could give Chennai the edge they need to rebuild and remain title contenders in the highly competitive IPL landscape.