New Delhi, July 22, 2024 – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to announce Sairaj Bahutule as the interim bowling coach for the upcoming tour to Sri Lanka. This decision comes as talks with former South African cricketer Morne Morkel are still underway for a full-time role, expected to commence during the home series against Bangladesh.

Bahutule, who is currently associated with the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, will temporarily fill the bowling coach position. According to a report from Cricbuzz, the BCCI has finalised his appointment while continuing discussions with Morkel.

Joining the coaching staff that includes T Dilip, Abhishek Nayar, and Ryan ten Doeschate, Bahutule will bring his extensive experience to the men's team for the six white-ball matches against Sri Lanka. At 51, Bahutule boasts a career with over 800 wickets in domestic cricket, having played two Tests and eight ODIs for India. His expertise in spin bowling is anticipated to be particularly advantageous on Sri Lanka's spin-friendly pitches.

Morkel, initially favoured for the bowling coach position, had to return to South Africa to attend to his unwell father. However, he remains in contention to join the coaching staff later, with expectations that he will be part of the team for the multi-format series against Bangladesh at home.