Table of Contents
Punjab Kings all-rounder Cooper Connolly is all set to make his IPL debut against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur. But in a surprising move, he will feature purely as a specialist batter.
Given the injury concerns around him, this decision has already started raising eyebrows, with Irfan Pathan openly questioning the logic behind such calls.
Why Cooper Connolly will not bowl
The decision to keep Cooper Connolly away from the bowling role is not a tactical move from the Punjab Kings camp. It comes as a direct directive from Cricket Australia. The board has taken a protective stance and instructed that Connolly should play only as a batter until the end of April.
The young all-rounder, picked up for INR 3 crore is currently recovering from a persistent back issue. Reports suggest it could be a stress fracture, which is why his bowling workload has been completely restricted for now.
Irfan Pathan’s blunt take
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Irfan Pathan did not hold back and put forward a rather sharp take on the growing trend of partial participation from all-rounders.
“It is being said that Cooper Connolly will not bowl. This seems very convenient. Cameron Green will come but will not bowl. Connolly will also come as a spinner but will not bowl. I do not understand this. Aaye ho to pura karo (if you have come, do everything),” said Pathan.
Injury concerns around Australian players
Connolly is not alone in this situation. Several prominent Australian names have been dealing with injuries heading into IPL 2026. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are all out of the early stages of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis has been ruled out from the Chennai Super Kings squad, dealing a massive blow to the franchise.
Big call from Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings are playing their opening clash against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. After missing out on the title last season, they will be eager to finish the unfinished job this time.
With Connolly playing as a specialist batter, the team seems to be keeping other all round options open. It is a big decision when it comes to balance in the playing XI.
