In a major development ahead of IPL 2026, veteran Indian cricketer and former selector Sunil Joshi has officially stepped down from his role as the spin-bowling coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS). His decision paves the way for a new chapter in his coaching career, as sources indicate that he is all set to join the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) at its Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.
Joshi, 55, informed the Punjab Kings management as well as head coach Ricky Ponting about his unavailability for the upcoming IPL season. The franchise has confirmed receiving a formal letter from Joshi citing career advancement as the reason for his exit.
“He’s a great professional, and we wish him the best. We understand when someone wants to grow further in their career,” a PBKS official told Cricbuzz.
The left-arm spinner had been associated with PBKS in multiple stints — earlier under Anil Kumble leadership (2020–2022) and most recently under Ponting.
Likely Appointment at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence
According to sources, Joshi is set to replace Sairaj Bahutule as the spin bowling coach at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Bahutule recently vacated the position to join Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2025.
Sunil Joshi’s vast coaching experience — from working with India A, UP Ranji team, Bangladesh men’s team, and the Indian senior selection panel — made him the standout choice for the BCCI’s elite program.
“With his domestic and international coaching background and a player-first approach, Joshi is seen as an ideal fit to guide India’s next generation of spinners,” sources told IANS.
Key Responsibilities at the Centre of Excellence
Once he joins the CoE, Joshi will work closely with top Indian spinners including:
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Washington Sundar
- Axar Patel
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Varun Chakaravarthy
He will also be involved in:
- Mentoring U-19, India A, and domestic spinners
- Assisting in player development programs
- Collaborating with national selectors to identify and train spin-bowling talent
Sunil Joshi: A Quick Look at His Career
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| International Career | 1996–2002 |
| Test Matches Played | 15 |
| ODIs Played | 69 |
| Total Wickets (Intl.) | 110 |
| Notable Coaching Roles | PBKS (IPL), India A, UP Ranji, Bangladesh |
| Selector Role | Former Chairman of India’s Selection Panel |
Sunil Joshi move is seen as a step forward not just for him, but for Indian cricket’s future spin resources. His expertise will now be channelled into shaping young bowling talents at the grassroots and national levels, just when India continues to search for the next big spin star.
