“He is somebody who’s very positive” – Bahutule after Connolly’s century

Punjab Kings (PBKS) spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule heaped praise on young Australian batter Cooper Connolly after his fighting unbeaten century against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2026 on May 6 in Hyderabad.

Speaking after Punjab’s 33-run loss to Hyderabad, Bahutule highlighted Connolly’s qualities that will help him succeed in Australian cricket.

“He is somebody who’s very positive and he’s a great potential,” Bahutule said in the press conference. “Definitely he’ll play a long period for Australia. He’s a very good all-rounder in the making, a fabulous fielder. And he’s got a good head on his shoulders.”

The 22-year-old has played a key role for Punjab this season at No. 3. Bought for ₹3 crore, Connolly has scored 377 runs from nine innings at an average of 53.85 and a strike rate of 171.36 so far this season. His best performance came against SRH when he scored a stunning unbeaten 107 off 59 balls after Punjab lost quick early wickets during the chase.

Bahutule also applauded Connolly’s commitment towards the team and his impressive performances in his debut IPL season.

“He’s a team man,” he said. “I think he’s learning, you know, being in India, playing in the conditions and the way he has adapted as an overseas player has been fabulous to see at that age [22], to come and really play at different venues, on different pitches, and perform so well.”

Punjab have slipped to second position after three consecutive losses. They will next face Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamshala on May 11.

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