Former Indian cricketer Sairaj Bahutule has been named as the spin bowling coach of the Indian senior men’s team by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The action is a continuation of BCCI’s efforts to nurture India’s spinner resources in all formats of the sport.
Bahutule has a rich experience of Indian cricket, both as a player and coach. He had a short career in international cricket, but was considered one of the most reliable all-rounders of his era in domestic cricket.
Bahutule had a reliable and a prolific career, in first-class cricket, that lasted close to two decades. He had made his mark in his domestic career and was regarded as one of the best spinners in the Indian cricket circuit.
Bahutule played his final professional game of cricket, and seamlessly moved into coaching, becoming one of the most well-known and trusted spin-bowling coaches in the country. He has served with various state teams and has played a significant part in developing the young talent in cricket at various levels in India over the years.
He has coached in domestic teams like Vidarbha, Bengal, Gujarat and Kerala. He also acquired some experience of franchise cricket and worked with IPL teams, guiding bowlers to thrive in the shortest format.
One of the most memorable moments of his coaching career was when he was part of India’s under-19 team. He helped nurture many young cricketers that went on to reach higher levels, among them Under-19 World Cup winners.
Bahutule is no different from the national setup either. He has had previous senior team coaching experience with India A and previously as a specialist bowling coach. His time at the National Cricket Academy (now Centre of Excellence) further bolstered his credentials.
Bahutule expressed her joy and pride at the event. He thanked the opportunity to be associated with Indian cricket again and reiterated his desire to assist the players to grow and excel at the international platform.
As India gets ready for a busy international schedule, Bahutule brings another expert to the coaching fold. The BCCI will be hoping that he can help nurture the country’s rich heritage of world-class spin-bowlers.
