Sairaj Bahutule Likely to Join Team India as Spin Bowling Coach: There is a palpable buzz within the corridors of Indian cricket these days. A significant change is expected in Team India’s support staff. There is a strong possibility that former Indian leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule will join the Indian team as the spin bowling coach. This move is considered crucial in light of the upcoming season and major tournaments.
Discussions with Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and the BCCI’s Stance
According to media reports (Cricbuzz), Bahutule has held detailed discussions regarding this potential role with Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and senior officials of the BCCI. Although he is currently associated with the Punjab Kings in the IPL, it is expected that he will soon be entrusted with a major and permanent responsibility at the national level.
A Wealth of Experience: A Domestic Cricket Stalwart
The inclusion of 52-year-old Sairaj Bahutule in the team is a well-considered decision by the BCCI. He possesses a wealth of experience that simply cannot be overlooked:
- First-Class Record: He has delivered stellar performances in first-class cricket, claiming 633 wickets.
- International Experience: He has represented India in two Test matches and eight One Day Internationals (ODIs).
- Coaching Career: Since retiring as a player, he has established himself as a patient mentor and a shrewd strategist.
A Long-Standing Association with Team India
For Bahutule, the national team’s dressing room will be a familiar environment.
He has worked with the team previously as well:
- Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023: He served as the bowling coach during this crucial series.
- Association with Dravid: Bahutule himself has acknowledged that it was Rahul Dravid who introduced him to the Indian team setup; the two also worked together during the tour of Sri Lanka.
The Journey from Rajasthan Royals to Punjab Kings
Bahutule’s recent coaching journey has been quite interesting. After resigning from the ‘Centre of Excellence’ (formerly the NCA):
- IPL 2025: He was seen with the Rajasthan Royals, serving as the spin bowling coach alongside Rahul Dravid and Shane Bond.
- IPL 2026: In the current season, he is with the Punjab Kings, where he has replaced Sunil Joshi.
When Will the Official Announcement Be Made?
Sairaj Bahutule’s association with the Indian team is considered all but certain; however, the primary hurdle remains his current contract with the Punjab Kings. It is expected that the BCCI will officially announce his name as soon as the contractual formalities are completed.
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