Sairaj Bahutule, the former India leg-spinner, has been signed by the Punjab Kings to head their spin bowling in the upcoming 2026 IPL season. The Economic Times reports that Bahutule is a highly experienced coach in domestic teams and IPL franchises, and he will be a welcome addition to the coaching team of the Punjab Kings.
Big Move in the Spin Department
The Punjab Kings are in the news as they have signed Sairaj Bahutule as their new spin bowling coach, replacing Sunil Joshi, who served in this position between 2023 and 2025.
Bahutule is an experienced coach who has played cricket and has that experience, as well as the calm authority that may be what the bowling unit at Punjab is currently lacking.
The career of Sairaj Bahutule as a coach has been founded on experience and flexibility. He has also worked with other IPL teams, such as the Rajasthan Royals, and domestic teams such as Kerala and Vidarbha. Having a reputation for building young spinners and emphasising discipline and control, his style fits the Kings’ intention of building a strong spin department. His presence may aid in changing the spin options of the team to more than just being supportive, to actually match winning.
Spin Bowling Coach, Sairaj Bahutule is now a 🦁! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/xBGvDCYvyF
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) October 23, 2025
Conversely, the exit of Sunil Joshi is not unnoticed. He will now lead the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Joshi had a big impact on the spinners in Punjab, and his transfer is a victory for the system of developing Indian cricket. His transition guarantees continuity to his coaching legacy, only that this time, the environment is different.
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On the whole, this action of the Punjab Kings is timely and strategic. They have frequently displayed explosive batting, but bowling has been lacking bite. The management appears to be willing to address that weakness directly by introducing Bahutule.
It is not merely a shift in staff but rather a declaration of intent to transform, adjust, and eventually translate the potential into performance. When the new IPL season comes, fans will be keen to watch how Sairaj Bahutule’s knowledge will transform the strategy of Punjab.
Amit Mishra’s Take
I consider this to be a clever action by the Punjab Kings to create a more balanced team. They have always been dependent on batting strength, and the inclusion of Sairaj Bahutule is an indication of a transition to strategy and stability.
His emphasis on discipline and player development may add much-needed discipline to their spin department.
Of course, change takes time. The relaxed effect of Sunil Joshi will be missed, but introducing Bahutule prior to the new season will provide the team with a head start. Provided his tactics work with the players, this may be the step that would finally allow Punjab to transform potential into actual success.
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