IPL:Rajasthan Royals rope in Sairaj Bahutule as spin bowling coach

Rajasthan Royals have further strengthened their coaching squad by appointing former Indian cricketer Sairaj Bahutule as their spin bowling coach for the upcoming 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Bahutule is the new addition to Royals support staff that is being headed by Zubin Bharucha. A former India Test player and a domestic stalwart from Mumbai, Bahutule was an effective leg spinner and equally handy batsman.

In 118 first-class matches, he has bagged 630 wickets at an average of 26 while also notching up 6,176 runs, including nine centuries, at a healthy average of 31.83.

He has also held coaching responsibilities with different states and is currently the coach of Bengal for the last three seasons. During his tenure so far, the Bengal team had made it to the quarterfinals and semi-finals of the Ranji Trophy.

Ecstatic to be a part of Rajasthan Royals' coaching staff, Bahutule said that he is looking forward to work with the players and be a part of the team that have legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne as their mentor.

"It is a privilege to be part of Rajasthan Royals coaching staff. I am excited to be part of a team that has legendary Shane Warne as mentor. I am looking forward to work with the players and share my knowledge, guide them through as we prepare for the gruelling season," said Bahutule.

Royals' Head of Cricket Zubin Bharucha, on the other hand, welcomed Bahutule in the team, saying that the latter would bring with him immense experience as a player and coach

"I welcome Sairaj on board. He brings with him immense experience as a player and coach. The camp in Mumbai will be an ideal start to know the players closely, work on specifics and plan the season ahead," Bharucha said.

Bahutule and Bharucha will be in charge of the three-day camp that will see participation from more than 10 Rajasthan Royals players. The emphasis of the training camp will be on fitness drills, role-specific training and stimulating different match situations.

Rajasthan Royals will kick-off their IPL season with an away game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9 followed by a home game against Delhi Daredevils on April 11 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur

-- ANI