Punjab Kings appoint Sairaj Bahutale as spin bowling coach

Punjab Kings have inducted former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule as their new spin bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. He replaces Sunil Joshi, who served the role from 2023 to 2025.

Bahutule, who was recently released by Rajasthan Royals where he occupied the same position, brings a wealth of experience to the table thanks to his long coaching career in domestic and franchise cricket. The 51-year-old has previously helped teams such as Bengal, Kerala, Vidarbha and Gujarat sharpen their skills, and has been widely credited for his work in grooming young Indian bowlers across formats.

Welcoming Bahutule to the set-up, Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon 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. His deep understanding of the game, particularly his extensive experience in grooming domestic bowlers and managing strategy, will be invaluable to our side.”

Bahutule is rather upbeat about joining the franchise. “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. 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.”

Bahutale joins a coaching staff that is helmed by the legendary Ricky Ponting. Brad Haddin and James Hopes were the other assistant coaches who oversaw the team’s run to the final in the 2025 season under Shreyas Iyer’s impactful captaincy.