IPL 2026: PBKS's Cooper Connolly eyes versatile batting role
What's the story
Australia all-rounder Cooper Connolly, who was recently signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for ₹3 crore in the Indian Premier League 2026 mini-auction, is ready to take on any batting position in the impending season. The 22-year-old cricketer said he likes to be versatile and can play at different positions as per the team's requirements. "Whether that's at three or in the middle, I'm happy to perform any role," Connolly said during a virtual media interaction.
Performance review
'Learning the role at No. 3'
Connolly has been in great form for Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League (BBL), scoring two explosive fifties while batting at No. 3. However, the Kings are particularly interested in his finishing skills and ability to handle pressure situations. "I feel like I'm still learning the role at number three for the (Perth) Scorchers. It's a role I enjoy," he said, adding that if his IPL role is different, he's totally okay with it because it's a world-class team.
Career trajectory
Connolly's rise in Australian cricket
Connolly has quickly become one of the most exciting young prospects in Australian cricket. He made his T20I and ODI debuts in September last year before bagging his maiden Test cap. The Western Australian also impressed during an ODI series against India. He scored an unbeaten 61 at Adelaide Oval. Connolly has featured in Test, eight ODIs, and six T20Is so far.
Plans
Connolly's aspirations for IPL 2026
Connolly is now set for his maiden IPL stint. He will work with his countryman Ricky Ponting, PBKS's head coach. "Yeah, I'm looking forward to getting stuck in with Ricky. I've heard a lot of good things about him. I haven't done a lot of work with him just yet. So I'm looking forward to spending some time with him and sort of doing some tweaks to my batting and seeing what his thoughts are on it," he said.
Adaptation challenges
Connolly on adapting to IPL conditions
Connolly acknowledged that the conditions in India will be different from those in Australia, with its fast and bouncy pitches. "It's very different from Australia... But that challenge of playing spin is tough for everyone," he said. Connolly emphasized the importance of learning from experienced players who have played in these conditions for a long time, and incorporating their methods into his own game.
Information
A look at his T20 numbers
According to ESPNcricinfo, Connolly has hammered 782 runs from 32 T20s at a healthy strike rate of 141.15. While he averages 35.54, his tally includes 4 half-centuries. Connolly has whacked 51 fours and 41 sixes in the format.