Overview
- Multiple Indian outlets on Friday reported that head coach Gautam Gambhir has recommended Sairaj Bahutule to become India’s specialist spin-bowling coach, citing an initial report by Cricbuzz.
- The reports say Bahutule has held discussions with Gambhir and senior BCCI officials about the role, with a formal announcement expected after the IPL season ends.
- Punjab Kings are not expected to block his exit, and he would leave the franchise after the tournament to comply with BCCI rules that separate IPL and national team roles.
- The hire would fill a long-vacant position in a staff that includes Sitanshu Kotak for batting and Morne Morkel for pace, and it is aimed at lifting India’s spinners and helping batters handle turn after recent defeats to New Zealand and South Africa.
- Several outlets report his start could line up with India’s June home series against Afghanistan and that his initial horizon would track with Gambhir’s contract through the 2027 ODI World Cup, drawing on Bahutule’s NCA work and prior short stints with the senior team.