Cooper Connolly is set to play a crucial role for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026, with head coach Ricky Ponting confirming that the young Australian will bat at No. 3 this season. Connolly steps into a key position previously occupied by Josh Inglis, who was instrumental in Punjab’s run to the IPL 2025 final. Inglis scored 278 runs at an impressive strike rate of over 160 before being released due to availability concerns and subsequently picked up by Lucknow Super Giants.
Signed for INR 3 crore, Connolly arrives as one of Australia’s most exciting young prospects. The left-handed batter, who also bowls left-arm spin, was part of the Perth Scorchers squad that clinched another Big Bash League title.
However, he will feature purely as a batter in the early stages of IPL 2026 due to a back issue, with Cricket Australia advising him to avoid bowling until he has fully recovered. Despite his all-around abilities, Connolly’s batting credentials are solid. In 52 T20 matches, he has scored 870 runs at a strike rate above 130.
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Notably, he has been effective at No. 3, where he has accumulated 378 runs in 14 innings. His highest T20 score of 77 came in this position, underlining his suitability for the role in Punjab’s batting order.
🚨 BIG UPDATE FROM PUNJAB KINGS CAMP 🚨
– Cooper Connolly is likely to bat at 3 for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. [Espn Cricinfo]
He is unavailable to bowl in the initial part of the season. pic.twitter.com/iAbZ5DW7e1
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 29, 2026
Connolly has already represented Australia across formats and is widely regarded as a rising star. One of his standout performances came in October 2025, when he scored an unbeaten 61 against India in an ODI at Adelaide, guiding his team to a successful chase. He also led Australia in the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, showcasing his leadership potential.
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Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against the Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh. After finishing as runners-up last season, the franchise will be aiming to finally clinch its maiden IPL title, with Connolly expected to play a key role in their quest.
