Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) assistant coach Brad Haddin has praised the team’s batting performances throughout the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season ahead of their clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday, May 24.
The former Australian cricketer also confirmed that there will be no change in the batting position of PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, who came down the order in the team’s most recent fixture against Rajasthan Royals. Haddin explained that the situation had forced them to push Iyer down the order. He acknowledged Iyer’s commitment, and noted that he continued to field on the boundary despite having a finger injury.
He also applauded Shashank Singh and Azmatullah Omarzai for stepping up when required and highlighted their impressive displays of talent in the league.
“Our top order has been outstanding. Our captain has been great at number 3. We have seen Shashank and Omar (Omarzai) on a number of occasions. When they have been needed, they have come on and played really well. Shashank has got a couple of 50s, and Omar has done the same. At this stage of the tournament, we are happy with where all our batters are at,” Haddin said.
“It was due to the circumstances the other day. It was a brave effort to actually take the field with how his finger was. So he still played a role, actually running around the boundary in the back half of the game. But yeah, he will go back to his normal position at number 3. He has been outstanding, not only as a batter, but as a leader throughout the whole tournament,” he added.
Owen will showcase his talent: Haddin
Haddin expressed confidence in Mitchell Owen, stating that he will certainly showcase his talent in the upcoming matches. He assured that the youngster has received extensive coaching and will play in the manner the team expects to play.
“I think the one thing Mitch brings is just sheer brute power. He has had over a week now to acclimate to what he is going to get. He understands the conditions now. He is talking a lot to our Indian batsmen; he is talking a lot to the coaching staff. So expect Mitch with his next opportunity to play the way we want him to play,” Haddin said.
We have clear goals where to finish: Haddin
Haddin emphasised that the team is focused on securing a strong finish at the end of the league stage. He noted that the next couple of games will be crucial and highlighted the players hunger to perform.
“It is good from the outside that we have qualified, but we spoke to the group some time ago about playing the game and the style of game that we want to play, and we have got some clear goals where we want to finish at the end. And I think you are going to see that up over the next couple of games,” Haddin stated.
“I think at the moment we have got the luxury, we can go with a couple of different combinations. And what I am liking at the moment, all the players are hungry to play. They are hungry to get out on the field. Training is ultra-competitive and that is where you want your group to be at this stage,” he added.
