Punjab Kings welcomed former India all‑rounder Sairaj Bahutule as their new spin coach, gearing up for the 2026 IPL season.
Bahutule replaces Sunil Joshi, who coached Punjab Kings from 2023 to 2025 before moving to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
“I’m thrilled to join Punjab Kings and help the team reach new heights,” Bahutule told reporters. “They play a unique style of cricket, and I see huge potential in their talent.”
The 31‑year‑old former Test and ODI bowler has a rich coaching résumé. He spent time with Kerala, Gujarat, Vidarbha and Bengal from home base and was the spin coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence for three years. After stints with Rajasthan Royals in 2018‑2021 and again in 2025, he now brings his experience to Punjab Kings.
Punjab Kings thanked Joshi for his service and expressed excitement about Bahutule’s arrival. CEO Satish Menon said, “Sairaj’s deep knowledge of spin will help us build a strong, cohesive bowling unit for the upcoming season.”
Bahutule joins a strong coaching team that includes head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant Brad Haddin, fast‑bowling guru James Hope and batting mentor Trevor Gonsarves. His first work will be evaluating the franchise’s retained players, with a deadline of November 15, and then shaping the team’s strategy for the mid‑December IPL auction.
This move positions Punjab Kings to boost their spin attack and compete at the top level in the 2026 IPL.
Source: ianslive
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