Table toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) have received a huge boost ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals. PBKS spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has provided a positive update regarding the availability of young Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly for the team's clash against DC on April 25, Saturday at the Arun Jaitley stadium in New Delhi.
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Cooper Connolly to feature in DC vs PBKS clash
Connolly’s status had been a subject of speculation following Punjab’s win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 19. Shortly after that match, the 22-year-old briefly returned to Australia to undergo medical scans on his back, a process necessary to ensure his bowling fitness was being closely monitored by Cricket Australia.
Addressing the media at the pre-match press conference, Bahutule put any doubts to rest by confirming that the all-rounder is 'very much available' for selection. The coach explained that Connolly’s trip to Australia was a quick, necessary excursion and that he has since returned to the squad fully prepared for the upcoming fixture.
"Yes, he’s very much available. He just went there and has come back. He’s ready and raring to go,” Bahutule said.
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Cooper Connolly's impact in IPL 2026
Connolly has become PBKS's main man, given his stunning performance in the recent past. The 22-year-old has made an immediate impact, amassing 223 runs across five innings in his six appearances. With an impressive average of 55.75 and a strike rate of 163.97, he has already notched two half-centuries, proving to be a reliable and explosive asset for the franchise. His recent form was particularly evident during the team's clash against the Lucknow Super Giants, where he delivered a stunning 87-run performance. Facing just 46 deliveries, Connolly played with aggressive intent at a strike rate of 189.13, finding the boundary eight times and clearing the ropes with seven massive sixes to anchor the innings.
Punjab Kings' dominance
PBKS are enjoying a stellar IPL 2026 campaign and currently stand as the only unbeaten team in the competition. They sit at the top of the league standings with 11 points and a robust net run rate of +1.420. Out of their six scheduled fixtures, they have secured five victories, with their only other match—against the Kolkata Knight Riders on April 6—ending as a no-result due to heavy rain in Kolkata.