The PBKS squad coming out of the IPL 2026 auction stands out not because of flashy spending, but because of how little they needed to do. Fresh off a runners-up finish in IPL 2025, Punjab Kings entered the auction, led by skipper Shreyas Iyer at the table, with a settled core and very specific gaps to fill.
In that context, the acquisition of Cooper Connolly for INR 3 crore looks close to flawless. Rather than overcorrecting or chasing star names, PBKS identified a role left vacant by Glenn Maxwell’s exit and filled it with a player who fits both the present needs and future vision of the squad. It makes the PBKS squad one of the best among all IPL 2026 squads.
Cooper Connolly A Perfect Role-Fit in PBKS Squad
What makes Cooper Connolly such a strong buy is not just his talent, but how precisely he fits the PBKS setup after the IPL 2026 auction.
Following Glenn Maxwell’s release, Punjab Kings needed:
- A middle-order batting all-rounder
- Someone comfortable floating between No.4 and No.6
- A secondary spin option to support Yuzvendra Chahal and Harpreet Brar
Connolly checks all three boxes. As a left-arm orthodox spinner and a clean middle-order batter, he provides the exact balance PBKS were missing, without forcing them to reshuffle the rest of the XI.
Why Connolly is Perfect For Punjab Kings
One of the most underrated aspects of Cooper Connolly’s profile is his temperament. He has already shown an ability to perform under pressure, whether it is producing a match-winning fifty against India, delivering Player-of-the-Match performances in the Big Bash League at the start of this season, or handling responsibility in Australia’s senior setup at just 22.
In the BBL 2025, Connolly scored 351 runs in 10 innings at an average of 50.14 and a strike rate of 131.46, while also picking up six wickets at an economy of 7.41. He stabilises innings when needed and accelerates without losing control. For the PBKS squad, that kind of flexibility is invaluable, as Connolly allows Punjab to reshape their batting order dynamically without sacrificing bowling depth.
The PBKS squad already has a strong Indian top order, proven finishing options in players like Shashank Singh, and overseas power through Marcus Stoinis and Marco Jansen. What it lacked was a reliable link in the middle overs, a player who could absorb pressure, rotate strike, take on spin, and still offer a couple of overs when matchups demanded it. Connolly provides exactly that role without forcing structural compromises elsewhere.
His presence gives Punjab Kings the freedom to either play an extra pacer or add a specialist batter, all without weakening their spin coverage. That balance, where tactical flexibility does not come at the cost of stability, is what often separates genuine contenders from squads that look strong only on paper.
Backed By Ponting, Trusted By Iyer
Another subtle but important factor is the environment Connolly walks into.
With Ricky Ponting as head coach and Shreyas Iyer as captain, PBKS are well-equipped to back and groom a young all-rounder. This is a setup that values clarity and long-term development, something Connolly will benefit from immensely.
Speaking on the Connolly buy, Shreyas Iyer said: “Honestly, he wasn’t there in our mind at the start but as we brainstormed and narrowed down our options, we realized he fit the position perfectly.”
“He has a great temperament and the ability to finish games. Those characteristics matter a lot in IPL. However, we didn’t think we would get him for 3, we actually predicted his price would be much higher.”
At INR 3 crore, Cooper Connolly is value with perfect role fit for PBKS. Punjab Kings didn’t need a superstar. They needed the right piece. Connolly fills the Maxwell-shaped hole in the squad without the volatility that came with it, while also offering growth potential over multiple seasons.
