Sairaj Bahutule named Punjab Kings spin-bowling coach ahead of IPL 2026

Punjab Kings have appointed former Indian leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule as their spin-bowling coach ahead of the 2026 IPL season. 

 

He has replaced Sunil Joshi, who served in this role from 2023 to 2025. According to a report on ESPNcricinfo Joshi will now join the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru as their spin coach. The inclusion of Bahutule is seen as an important step as the Punjab franchise will hope to follow their strong performance from IPL 2025, where they finished as the runners-up.

 

“Sairaj’s deep understanding of the game, particularly his extensive experience in grooming domestic bowlers and managing strategy, will be invaluable to our side,” PBKS CEO Satish Menon said. “His expertise aligns perfectly with our vision of building a strong and cohesive bowling unit for the season ahead.”

 

Bahutule is excited about his new role. The former Mumbai cricketer said that he is eager to work with the franchise’s talented players and help them grow. “I’m really excited to join Punjab Kings as a spin-bowling coach for the upcoming IPL season…I’m looking forward to working with them to refine their skills and help them reach new heights.”

 

Before joining Punjab, Bahutule had worked with Rajasthan Royals as their spin-bowling coach – from 2018 to 2021 and then in 2025. He has also been a part of India A and National Cricket Academy coaching set-ups. 

 

Bahutule will now be part of a strong PBKS coaching set-up, led by head coach Ricky Ponting. Brad Haddin, James Hopes, and Trevor Gonsalves are the other coaches of the franchise.