Varun Aaron: Fast Bowling Enthusiast – Varun Aaron has always had a penchant for speed. Though his fast bowling career may be winding down, he maintains aspirations to run quickly and plans to acquire a motorcycle against his parents’ wishes. In this interview, he shares his journey from Jharkhand to the Indian cricket team, discussing how injuries helped him better understand his craft and physical self.
Understanding Fast Bowlers – Indian cricket tends to celebrate batters as superstars, yet it’s intriguing how fast bowlers capture the audience’s heart. When asked if he feels this when engaging with fans, Aaron believes that fast bowlers have a unique, almost cult-like following. He draws a comparison to Quentin Tarantino’s appeal, stating that the thrill of fast bowling brings dramatic energy to the game.
The Allure of Speed – Aaron’s fascination with speed started early, with aspirations of becoming a fighter pilot. He recalls drawing fighter jets and enjoying war comics as a child. His father was instrumental in nurturing this passion, often discussing legendary fast bowlers like Andy Roberts and Michael Holding while watching cricket. Though he initially pursued batting, a pivotal moment came when he had to bowl due to his mother’s conditions regarding academic performance.
The Journey to Fast Bowling – After being encouraged to bowl due to his natural speed, Aaron quickly excelled, even receiving praise for his fast bowling prowess during state trials. His association with coaching legend Dennis Lillee started at age 14, where he learned that fast bowling requires a dedicated lifestyle. This notion led him to obsessively maintain peak physical fitness, reflecting on his journey through cricket.
Dealing with Injuries – Throughout his career, Aaron faced significant challenges with injuries, particularly stress fractures. Despite an arduous rehab journey, his unwavering determination kept his dreams of playing for India alive. He frequently moved cities to focus on recovery, always believing that he would return to the game.
Post-Career Aspirations – Now transitioning to coaching with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Aaron expresses excitement about the new challenges ahead. He envisions focusing more on off-season strategies to enhance players’ skills while ensuring their mental well-being during the season. Reflecting on his cricketing journey, he asserts he has no regrets, always striving to give his best on and off the field.
Conclusion – Varun Aaron’s journey is a testament to his passion for fast bowling, perseverance through adversities, and his commitment to contributing to cricket in a coaching capacity. His unique insights into the game and the lifestyle of a fast bowler will undoubtedly shape the future stars he mentors.
