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Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) have roped in former Team India cricketer Siraj Bahutule as their new spin bowling coach.
Bahutule, in his playing days, represented Team India in two Test matches and eight One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He has now replaced Sunil Joshi, who was serving in the role since 2023.
The 52-year-old former spinner is known as a highly-regarded cricket coach. He has coached domestic teams such as Kerala, Gujarat, Vidarbha and Bengal. Earlier, he was working with the IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR), focusing on the development of young talent.
Satish Menon, CEO of Punjab Kings, welcomed Bahutule and said, “We extend our sincere thanks to Sunil Joshi for his dedicated service and contribution to the Punjab Kings over the years. As we look forward, we are thrilled to welcome Sairaj Bahutule to our coaching staff”.
“Sairaj`s deep understanding of the game, particularly his extensive experience in grooming domestic bowlers and managing strategy, will be invaluable to our side. His expertise aligns perfectly with our vision of building a strong and cohesive bowling unit for the season ahead,” he added.
Expressing his views on the appointment, Bahutule has expressed excitement for the role by saying he sees massive potential in the team.
“I`m really excited to join Punjab Kings as a spin bowling coach for the upcoming IPL season. This is a team that plays a different brand of cricket, and I can see the potential is massive,” said the 52-year-old former cricketer.
“They have a bunch of talented players, and I`m looking forward to working with them to refine their skills and help them reach new heights,” he added.
In the concluded IPL 2025, the Punjab-based franchise finished at the top of the points table. In 14 matches, the side managed to secure victories in nine games and suffered losses in four. They had a net run rate (NRR) of +0.371 and 19 points.
The side also sealed the final berth, but fell short of laying their hands on the elusive showpiece. PBKS suffered a loss by six runs against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
(With PTI Inputs)
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