Ricky Ponting is taking steps to build up his support staff at Punjab Kings, and it will begin with James Hopes, the former Australian allrounder. Hopes worked with Ponting when he was part of Delhi Capitals and even an IPL player back in 2008, the inaugural season of the league.
James Hopes Joins As Key Support Staff
At 46, Hopes was handed a lifeline to extend his contract with Delhi Capitals following his former captain Ponting, who was not given a renewed contract. He opted instead to follow his former captain who has penned a four-year deal with Punjab Kings, a new beginning for the franchise as they gear themselves for the seasons to come.
Coaching Change
The signing of Hopes means the end for Charl Langeveldt, the former South African pacer who acted as fast-bowling coach under Trevor Bayliss in the last two seasons. Langeveldt was the bowling coach during the 2020 season.
Other Retained Staffs
Brad Haddin will continue to be the batting and wicket-keeping coach. He has been working with the franchise for the last few seasons. Trevor Bayliss brought him into the franchise, and he worked with earlier in SunRisers Hyderabad.
Sunil Joshi, former Indian spinner and chief selector, will remain the spin bowling coach. He has contributed to the franchise in the last couple of seasons.
However, the franchise has parted ways with Sanjay Bangar, who was appointed as head of cricket development last year but had his contract terminated midway through its three-year term. Other retained staff members include Adrian Le Roux (S&C coach) and Andrew Leipus (physio).
Challenges Ahead For Ponting
Ponting’s immediate focus will be on finalizing the player retention list. The normal thing for the Punjab Kings is to head into the auction with the maximum available budget. Of the set players likely to be retained by the team is left-arm pacer from India Arshdeep Singh.
While there is a continuing debate among the members of the franchise over his being retained at the touts amount of INR 18 crore, according to a few, he should be available for his acquisition through an RTM card at a much cheaper rate.
In addition, Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, who delivered some fine performances last season, will also be picked into the side as uncapped players for INR 4 crore.
