The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed former Indian cricketer Sairaj Bahutule as the Spin Bowling Coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. The appointment adds another experienced figure to India’s coaching staff as the team continues its preparations for upcoming international assignments.
Bahutule is widely respected in Indian cricket circles for his extensive experience both on the field and in coaching roles. Having worked across domestic cricket, youth development programs, and professional franchise leagues, he brings a deep understanding of spin bowling and player development.
A Distinguished Cricketing Career
Before stepping into coaching, Bahutule enjoyed a successful playing career that spanned nearly two decades. Although he represented India in a limited number of international matches, his contributions in domestic cricket were exceptional.
The former all-rounder accumulated more than 6,000 runs and took over 600 wickets in first-class cricket, making him one of the most accomplished performers in India’s domestic cricket history. His consistency with both bat and ball earned him recognition as a valuable asset for every team he represented.
Strong Coaching Background
Following his retirement from professional cricket, Bahutule transitioned into coaching and quickly established himself as a respected mentor. He has served as head coach for several domestic teams, including Vidarbha, Kerala, Gujarat, and Bengal.
His expertise has also been utilized in the Indian Premier League, where he worked with franchises such as Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, helping bowlers improve their skills in one of the world’s most competitive T20 tournaments.
Key Role in Talent Development
Bahutule has been actively involved in India’s cricket development system over the past few years. He was part of the coaching staff that guided India to victory in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2022 and later contributed to the team’s campaign in the 2024 edition of the tournament.
He has also worked closely with India A squads and the senior national team during various assignments. Between 2021 and 2024, he served at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy, now known as the Centre of Excellence, where he played a significant role in nurturing emerging talent.
Bahutule Expresses Gratitude
Speaking after the announcement, Bahutule described the opportunity as a proud moment in his cricketing journey.
He said that representing India as a player was one of the greatest honors of his career and that returning to serve Indian cricket in a coaching role is equally meaningful. He added that he is excited to work alongside the players and contribute to the team’s continued success across all formats.
Looking Ahead
With years of coaching experience and a proven track record of developing spin bowlers, Bahutule is expected to play an important role in strengthening India’s bowling unit. His appointment reflects the BCCI’s continued focus on building a strong support staff capable of maintaining India’s competitiveness on the global stage.
