Former India spinner Sairaj Bahutule is likely to join the Indian men’s cricket team as its new spin-bowling coach. The 53-year-old is currently working with Punjab Kings in the IPL 2026 season. However, he is expected to leave the franchise soon to take up the new role with Team India.
According to reports, Bahutule has already held discussions with India head coach Gautam Gambhir and senior officials of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Gambhir is believed to have recommended his name for the position.
Strong Coaching Reputation Helped Sairaj Bahutule To Coach Indian Team
Bahutule is highly respected for his work with spin bowlers. He played two Tests and eight ODIs for India between 2001 and 2003. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation as a coach in domestic and franchise cricket.
The current Indian coaching staff includes batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel, fielding coach T Dilip and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. At present, the team does not have a dedicated spin-bowling coach.
Bahutule has worked with the Indian team before during his time at the National Cricket Academy under VVS Laxman. Former India head coach Rahul Dravid had also asked him to join the support staff during the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the tour of Sri Lanka.
He is expected to join Team India soon, depending on his contract situation with Punjab Kings. The IPL franchise is unlikely to stop him from taking up a national team role.
ALSO READ Shreyas Iyer Likely to Replace Suryakumar Yadav as India T20I Captain
