Punjab Kings have officially appointed former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule as their spin bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season, replacing Sunil Joshi, who held the position from 2023 to 2025.
Bahutule, 51, brings extensive coaching experience to the franchise, having previously worked with Rajasthan Royals, Bengal, Kerala, Vidarbha, and Gujarat in various capacities. Known for his strong developmental approach, he has been credited for shaping several young Indian bowlers in domestic and franchise cricket.
Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon welcomed the appointment, stating, “We extend our sincere thanks to Sunil Joshi for his dedicated service and contribution to 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 experience in grooming domestic bowlers and managing strategy, will be invaluable to our side.”
Expressing his excitement, Bahutule said, “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.”
Bahutule joins a coaching staff led by Ricky Ponting, alongside Brad Haddin and James Hopes, who guided the team to the final of the 2025 IPL season. The addition of Bahutule is expected to bolster Punjab Kings’ spin department as they aim to go one step further in IPL 2026.
