PBKS Retain Haddin and Joshi; Hopes May Join Support Staff
Despite these changes, the franchise retains other key staff members, including Adrian le Roux as the strength and conditioning coach and Andrew Leipus as the physiotherapist.
In a significant move towards shaping his support staff, Ricky Ponting has re-signed James Hopes, the former Australian allrounder, as part of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) coaching setup. Hopes, who previously worked with Ponting during their time at Delhi Capitals, has been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008.
Ponting, who recently signed a four-year contract with PBKS, reportedly had an opportunity to keep Hopes at Delhi Capitals following the expiration of Ponting's contract. However, Hopes opted to stay with Ponting, indicating a strong professional rapport between the two.
Coaching Changes
Hopes' arrival marks the end of Charl Langeveldt's tenure as the fast-bowling coach, a position Langeveldt held under Trevor Bayliss for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Langeveldt had also served as the bowling coach for PBKS in the 2020 season.
Ponting has decided to retain Brad Haddin, who has been with PBKS as an assistant coach over the past few seasons. Initially brought in by Bayliss, Haddin previously collaborated with Ponting at SunRisers Hyderabad and will continue to focus on batting and wicketkeeping coaching.
Upcoming Decisions
Ponting’s immediate task is to finalize the player retention list. As usual, PBKS is expected to enter the auction with a substantial budget. A point of contention within the franchise revolves around retaining left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who could be considered for retention at INR 18 crore. However, there’s speculation that the team might utilize a Right to Match (RTM) card to acquire him at a lower price.
Other potential retention candidates include Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, both of whom had notable performances last season and could be retained as uncapped players for INR 4 crore each.
With these strategic appointments and decisions, PBKS aims to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming IPL season, building on their foundation for future success.
