Sairaj Bahutule appointed Gujarat coach for the upcoming season

Having coached teams like Kerala and Bengal in the recent past, Sairaj Bahutule is ready for his latest challenge as the coach of Gujarat.

"The former leg-spinner (Bahutule) will coach Gujarat for the forthcoming season," Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) vice president Parimal Nathwani told PTI.

The former leg spinner made two test and five ODI appearances for the Men in Blue. He has also served as the spin coach for Rajasthan Royals in the past. As for his domestic playing career, he has represented Mumbai as well as Vidarbha. He was a household name in domestic cricket and took 630 first class wickets at an average of 26. 

Having won its first ever Ranji Trophy in 2016-17, Gujarat bowed out in the quarter-finals last year after a loss to Rajasthan. Having had a history of recruiting local coaches, this is the first time the team has gone out of their home one and roped in a renowned coach in the form of Mumbai-born Bahutule.

"The GCA wanted an experienced hand (to guide players in) domestic cricket tournaments and needed a coach who could communicate with a young team," Nathwani said.

According to a News 18 report, Bahutule had earlier applied for the job of the Mumbai team's coach, but the MCA could not take the decision quickly enough.