Sairaj Bahutule joins India team as spin-bowling coach ahead of Afghanistan Test
Strengthening the Spin Arsenal
In a move aimed at revitalizing the team’s spin department, the BCCI has confirmed that Sairaj Bahutule joins India team as spin-bowling coach ahead of Afghanistan Test. The 53-year-old former international leg-spinner steps into a vacant role within the support staff, tasked with guiding the current crop of spinners not only for the upcoming red-ball challenge in New Chandigarh but also for future white-ball commitments. His appointment comes at a time when the Indian team is looking to stabilize their performance in the longest format of the game.
A Wealth of Coaching Experience
Bahutule brings a formidable resume to the dressing room. His recent coaching tenure includes a spell with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 2026 edition of the IPL. Prior to that, he held positions with domestic giants like Kerala and Bengal. His expertise is further bolstered by his time at the Rajasthan Royals from 2018 to 2021, followed by a productive stint at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). His familiarity with the current Indian setup is high, having served as support staff for various India A assignments during the tenure of Rahul Dravid as head coach.
From Domestic Stalwart to Mentor
While Bahutule’s international career spanned only two Tests and eight ODIs between 1997 and 2003, his domestic legacy is nothing short of legendary. Over a career lasting two decades, he established himself as one of the most consistent spinners in the Indian domestic circuit. His record speaks for itself: 630 wickets in 188 first-class matches and an additional 197 wickets in 143 List A games. This transition from a prolific domestic campaigner to a mentor provides him with the unique perspective needed to guide young spinners through the technical and mental rigors of international cricket.
Integrating with the New Setup
As Bahutule steps into his new role, he joins a revamped support staff led by head coach Gautam Gambhir. The current support structure features Sitanshu Kotak (batting), Morne Morkel (fast bowling), T Dilip (fielding), and Ryan ten Doeschate (assistant coach). With no incumbent spin-bowling coach previously in place, Bahutule is expected to play a pivotal role in refining the team’s strategy, particularly as the team prepares to face the challenging Afghan lineup.
The Road Ahead for India
The timing of this appointment is critical. India is currently navigating a challenging period in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, sitting sixth on the points table. With a record of four wins, four losses, and one draw, the team is looking to rebound from recent home series defeats—most notably the 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand in late 2024 and a 2-0 series loss to South Africa in November 2025.
The one-off Test against Afghanistan, scheduled to take place in New Chandigarh from June 6 to 10, serves as a crucial starting point for India’s Test ambitions this year. Coming less than a week after the conclusion of the IPL, the match will test the players’ ability to switch formats quickly. With Bahutule’s technical guidance, the team hopes to leverage the expertise of their spinners to regain their dominance on home soil and climb the WTC rankings as the year progresses.
