Is Sairaj Bahutule Joining Punjab Kings as Their New Spin Bowling Coach?
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Synopsis
Exciting changes are on the horizon for Punjab Kings as former Indian leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule is expected to step in as their new spin bowling coach ahead of IPL 2026. With a wealth of experience and a promising record, Bahutule’s appointment could significantly impact the team's performance. Stay tuned for more details on this development!
Key Takeaways
- Sairaj Bahutule likely joining Punjab Kings as spin coach.
- Bahutule previously worked with Rajasthan Royals.
- PBKS finished as runners-up in IPL 2025.
- Coaching changes in RR as part of their restructuring.
- Bahutule's experience is expected to enhance PBKS's performance.
New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) Former Indian leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule is set to join Punjab Kings (PBKS) as their new spin bowling coach in preparation for the 2026 IPL season. After being part of the Rajasthan Royals support team during IPL 2025, he is believed to be moving on as the franchise undergoes significant changes within its coaching staff.
Bahutule, who represented India in two Tests and eight ODIs, joined RR last year after completing a three-year term as a spin bowling coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he served from 2018 to 2021.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Bahutule is expected to leverage his extensive experience with the PBKS, who finished as runners-up in IPL 2025. “It is reported that Bahutule has commenced scouting for PBKS ahead of the franchise's strategic plans for the IPL 2026 auction scheduled for December,” the sources added.
Bahutule is the third coach to depart from RR following their ninth-place finish in the IPL 2025 standings, following Rahul Dravid and Dishant Yagnik. At PBKS, he will take on the role previously held by Sunil Joshi.
Joshi, a veteran of 15 Tests and 69 ODIs for India and a former member of the senior men’s selection committee, has transitioned to become the spin bowling coach at the CoE in Bengaluru.
Alongside Bahutule, the PBKS support crew includes head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Brad Haddin, fast bowling coach James Hopes, and Trevor Gonsalves.
In a related announcement, Lucknow Super Giants revealed that veteran New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson will take on the role of strategic advisor, alongside retaining head coach Justin Langer and hiring Carl Crowe as their spin bowling coach in anticipation of the IPL 2026 season.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the strategic moves being made by franchises ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The potential hiring of Sairaj Bahutule highlights the importance of experienced coaches in enhancing team performance. With a shift in coaching dynamics, we anticipate an exciting season ahead, where teams like Punjab Kings aim to leverage expertise for success.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sairaj Bahutule?
Sairaj Bahutule is a former Indian leg-spinner who has played two Tests and eight ODIs for India. He has extensive coaching experience, notably as a spin bowling coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
What role will Bahutule take at Punjab Kings?
Sairaj Bahutule is expected to join Punjab Kings as their new spin bowling coach ahead of the 2026 IPL season.
What is Punjab Kings' recent performance?
Punjab Kings finished as the runners-up in the IPL 2025 season.
What changes are happening in the Rajasthan Royals' staff?
Rajasthan Royals are undergoing a major shake-up in their coaching staff, with Bahutule being one of the coaches to leave after their ninth-place finish in IPL 2025.
Who else is part of the Punjab Kings support staff?
The PBKS support staff includes head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Brad Haddin, fast bowling coach James Hopes, and Trevor Gonsalves.
