Prior to the 2025 Indian Premier League, another former India coach is expected to join the Rahul Dravid-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) coaching staff. Sairaj Bahutule is expected to return to the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals. Previously affiliated with the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, the former India spinner will join the Royals as a spin bowling coach and is expected to be in the dugout starting this season. Prior to joining the NCA, currently known as the Centre of Excellence, he worked for the Royals from 2018 to 21.
Bahutule did not work as a permanent coach for Team India. He travelled with the squad on international tours and served as a stand-in. He also went to Sri Lanka with head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Sairaj Bahutule on the move
"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 realigning 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," Sairaj told Cricbuzz.
Following the conclusion of his tenure as head coach of Team India, Rahul Dravid returned to RR as their coach. He previously worked with RR from 2011 until 2013. For three years, Dravid was a member of the Rajasthan-based team. After retiring, he took over as coach of RR, a position he held for two years.
In 2017, Dravid was working with the BCCI and had to quit coaching IPL teams. In 2018, RR returned to the IPL. Following a successful time with Team India from November 2021 to June 2024, he decided to rejoin RR. Under his guidance, India advanced to the 2024 T20 World Cup final and won the competition.
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