Sairaj Bahutule set to join Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals are preparing to welcome back Sairaj Bahutule as their spin bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. The former India spinner, who worked at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for three years, is expected to be seen in the Royals' dugout from this season onwards. Bahutule was previously associated with the franchise from 2018 to 2021.

The 52-year-old has played two Tests and five ODIs for India, and later entered into coaching, working with several teams. At the NCA, he played a crucial role in nurturing young spinners. He had also worked as India's bowling coach during the Border-Gavaskar series in 2023 and when India traveled to Sri Lanka in 2024.

His return to the former champions comes when the franchise is focusing on strengthening its bowling department. He will collaborate closely with fast-bowling coach Shane Bond and head coach Rahul Dravid. Speaking about his coming appointment, Bahutule revealed about rejoining Rajasthan Royals. 

"The discussions are ongoing, and I'm close to finalizing my involvement with the franchise. There are still a few details to be worked out, but I'm excited to be realigned with the Royals. I'm also thrilled to be reuniting with Rahul. He was the one who introduced me to the Indian team during the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in 2023 when I served as the spin-bowling coach. I was also part of his coaching staff in Sri Lanka, so I'm looking forward to our reunion," Bahutule told Cricbuzz. 

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Bahutule’s role at RR will be to work with the team’s spinners, including Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Kumar Kartikeya.