Former Indian leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule is reportedly set to join Punjab Kings (PBKS) as their new spin bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

Having previously served as part of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) support staff during IPL 2025, Bahutule has now moved on from the franchise amid major restructuring in its backroom team. The former cricketer, who represented India in two Tests and eight ODIs, brings a wealth of experience from both domestic and coaching circuits.

Before his stint with RR, Bahutule worked at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru as the spin bowling coach from 2022 to 2024 and had also been associated with RR between 2018 and 2021 in a similar role.

Bahutule's New Role and PBKS's Strategic Preparations

According to IANS, Bahutule has already begun scouting players for PBKS ahead of the IPL 2026 auction scheduled for December. His recruitment is seen as a move to strengthen Punjab's spin department, especially after the team's impressive performance as runners-up in IPL 2025. The franchise is banking on Bahutule's expertise to enhance their bowling strategy and player development.

His appointment also marks another exit from RR's coaching panel after the departures of Rahul Dravid and Dishant Yagnik, reflecting a phase of transition for the Jaipur-based team. Bahutule will be stepping into the position vacated by Sunil Joshi, who has now joined the CoE in Bengaluru as a spin bowling coach.

Coaching Movements Across Franchises Ahead of IPL 2026

Sunil Joshi, a former India left-arm spinner who featured in 15 Tests and 69 ODIs, had been a key part of PBKS's setup before returning to a national-level coaching role. His departure created the opportunity for Bahutule's induction into the team's staff. PBKS now boasts a well-rounded support unit featuring head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Brad Haddin, fast bowling coach James Hopes, and Trevor Gonsalves. Meanwhile, other IPL franchises are also making notable changes ahead of the new season.