Bharathi Arun is a former Indian cricketer known for his contributions as a right-arm medium pace bowler and a hard-hitting middle-order batsman. Despite limited opportunities at the national level, Arun showcased his talent and proved himself as one of the most successful players in the domestic circuit.
Born on December 14, 1962, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Arun’s passion for cricket led him to pursue the sport professionally. He made his debut in first-class cricket representing Tamil Nadu in the late 1970s and quickly caught the attention of selectors with his impressive performances. Arun’s outstanding domestic performances earned him a chance to partner with cricket legend Kapil Dev as an opening batsman for the Indian team during the 1980s.
In 1986-87, Arun finally earned his maiden Test call-up against Sri Lanka. Although he only played in two Tests, he showed promise as a bowler, finishing as the most successful bowler in his debut match with figures of three for 76. However, Arun’s overall performance in those matches was modest, and he couldn’t make a lasting impact at the international level.
Regardless of his limited international appearances, Arun became a stalwart for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy. He played a vital role in Tamil Nadu’s triumph in the 1987-88 season, where the team claimed the prestigious domestic cricket title. Arun’s contributions with both bat and ball were crucial in guiding his team to success.
One of Arun’s standout performances came during the Duleep Trophy in the 1986-87 season. Representing South Zone, he forged a record-breaking sixth-wicket partnership of 221 runs with WV Raman against West Zone in the final. Arun, displaying his batting prowess, scored a remarkable 149 runs, further solidifying his reputation as a vital asset for his team.
Although Arun’s playing career at the international level was relatively short-lived, he continued to excel at the domestic level, displaying his commitment and skill. After retiring from active cricket, the former cricketer ventured into coaching and mentoring young talent. Arun was appointed as the bowling coach for the Indian national cricket team under the leadership of head coach Ravi Shastri in 2017.
As a coach, Arun contributed significantly to the success of Indian cricket, particularly in the bowling department. Under his guidance, India’s bowling attack witnessed remarkable improvements and exhibited exceptional performances, both in Test cricket and limited-overs formats. Arun played a crucial role in shaping the skill sets and strategies of some of India’s finest bowlers, such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma.
Now an integral part of the Indian coaching staff, Arun’s vast experience and expertise continue to make a significant impact on India’s performance in international cricket. His dedication, knowledge, and passion for the game make him a revered figure in the Indian cricketing fraternity.
Bharathi Arun’s journey in the world of cricket is a tale of perseverance and determination. Though his international career was short-lived, his significant contributions at the domestic level and his coaching prowess have cemented his place as an important figure in Indian cricket. Arun’s indomitable spirit and passion for the sport continue to inspire cricketers across the nation.
