Sairaj Bahutule returns to Rajasthan Royals as spin-bowling coach
What's the story
Former Indian leg-spinner, Sairaj Bahutule, has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL).
This will be his second stint with the franchise after having served from 2018 to 2021.
Bahutule said he was excited to rejoin RR and work with head coach Rahul Dravid, in a recent statement.
Here's more.
Coaching alignment
Bahutule's coaching philosophy aligns with RR's vision
Bahutule said, "Joining Rajasthan Royals again is a tremendous honor."
He added that the franchise's commitment to nurturing talent and playing an exciting brand of cricket resonates with his own coaching philosophy.
His main aim is to develop the team's bowling attack and contribute to their success in the upcoming season.
Coaching journey
Bahutule's extensive coaching experience and achievements
After his first spell with RR, Bahutule was the spin-bowling coach at the National Cricket Academy. He also joined the support staff in several India A series.
More recently, he helped stand-in India head coach VVS Laxman during a T20I series in Ireland and was India's bowling coach when they won gold at the Asian Games in 2023.
Warm welcome
Dravid welcomes Bahutule's return to RR
Welcoming Bahutule back into the fold, Dravid, the new head coach of RR, said, "Sairaj's deep understanding of spin bowling and his extensive coaching experience make him an invaluable addition to our team."
In an official statement, Dravid also expressed confidence that Bahutule would mentor young bowlers and his insights would greatly benefit the players in the upcoming season.
Post-retirement success
Bahutule's successful coaching career post-retirement
Post-retirement, Bahutule has enjoyed a successful coaching career. He has mentored teams like Mumbai, Bengal, Kerala and also the senior Indian Men's Cricket Team in 2024.
He also worked as the bowling coach at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for three years.
At RR, he will be working alongside bowling coach Shane Bond.
Twitter Post
Twitter Post
Once a Royal. Always a Royal.
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) February 13, 2025
Say hello to Spin Bowling Coach Sairaj Bahutule, who will look after your spin diamonds in #IPL2025! 🔥💗 pic.twitter.com/iI7Top4isc