Punjab Kings (PBKS) are facing a significant change in their support staff ahead of the IPL 2027 season, with two more members of Ricky Ponting’s coaching group deciding to leave the franchise.
Brad Haddin and James Hopes have resigned from their respective roles with Punjab Kings. Haddin was part of the team’s coaching setup, while former Australia all-rounder Hopes served as the fast-bowling coach. Their departures come after spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule also left the franchise following IPL 2026.
The developments mean Ponting and PBKS management will have to rebuild a significant part of the coaching unit before the next IPL campaign.
Punjab Kings looking for replacements in the coaching staff
Haddin and Hopes have reportedly informed the Preity Zinta-owned franchise of their decisions only recently. The franchise has already started looking for replacements, with the new appointments expected to be finalised before the IPL 2027 auction in December.
Haddin had been associated with PBKS setup before Ponting arrived and continued with the franchise after the former Australia captain took charge. Hopes, meanwhile, joined the Mohali-based franchise alongside Ponting after the duo previously worked together at Delhi Capitals (DC).
Both coaches are understood to have opportunities in Australia’s Big Bash League, which is believed to have played a role in their decisions to leave Punjab.
For Ponting, Hopes’ departure could be particularly significant given their previous working relationship.
Ponting faces another coaching challenge
Ponting was appointed Punjab Kings head coach in September 2024 on a four-year contract, with the franchise giving him considerable control over building his coaching group.
The Australian had made it clear when he joined that he wanted the freedom to put together a coaching team capable of delivering results.
“The head coach will take the call,” reported Cricbuzz regarding the process of selecting replacements.
That responsibility now becomes important again as Ponting looks to fill multiple vacancies.
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Punjab Kings’ progress under Ponting
Punjab Kings have shown signs of progress under Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer. The franchise reached the IPL 2025 final after finishing top of the league table, although they eventually lost the title clash to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
The coaching stability behind that progress will now be tested.
The fast-bowling department, in particular, will require a new voice following Hopes’ departure. Haddin’s exit also means Punjab will need to identify another experienced coach to work with their players.
However, Ponting’s long-term contract provides the franchise with some continuity at the top.
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