The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a stage where young talents transition into global stars, and for 22-year-old Cooper Connolly, the 2026 season represents the ultimate breakthrough. After being acquired by Punjab Kings for Rs 3 crore during the high-octane auction in Abu Dhabi, the Australian spin-bowling all-rounder is set to make his maiden appearance in the world’s most prestigious T20 league.
IPL 2026: Cooper Connolly on learning from Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer
One of the most anticipated aspects of Connolly’s maiden IPL stint is the opportunity to play under the astute leadership of Shreyas Iyer. Having reached the IPL final with three different franchises and captaining Kolkata Knight Riders to a title just a year ago, Iyer is widely regarded as one of the finest tactical minds in the T20 format. Connolly revealed that he had already initiated contact with the Mumbaikar during Australia A’s recent tour of India, where he was immediately struck by Iyer’s professional aura and “world-class” approach to the game.
The young Australian is keen to understand the nuances of captaincy and match awareness that have made Iyer a perennial success in the league. As per quoted by ESPNcricinfo, Connolly expressed his excitement and he further believes that these interactions will be crucial for his adaptation to the high-pressure environment of the IPL, “When I was over there for Australia A vs India A, I spoke to Shreyas a little bit and just watching him go about his work – and even watching him in Australia – he’s a world-class player. So I’m keen to pick his brains a little bit and understand how he goes about it and what makes him successful.”
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Not Glenn Maxwell! Cooper Connolly reveals the Punjab Kings superstar who inspired him the most
The connection between Connolly and Punjab runs deeper than a simple auction purchase, as he steps into a franchise where his idol, Shaun Marsh, created a lasting legacy over nearly a decade. Marsh was the inaugural Orange Cap winner for the franchise in 2008 and remains a beloved icon for the Punjab fans, a status that Connolly hopes to eventually emulate through his own performances.
“Shaun Marsh was a hell of a player; if anyone has half of his career, you’ve done well. I still speak to him occasionally. I think the main thing I’ve taken from him is his ability to handle situations – no matter whether it’s three for not many or one for something – just being able to control his emotions and do whatever the team needs. I’m sure over the next couple of months, I’ll speak to him about his time over at Punjab, how he enjoyed it, and what worked for him. But yeah, I’d like to leave a legacy at Punjab. If I get the opportunity, hopefully I can sort of etch my name in history and win the trophies for Punjab.” Connolly added.
Beyond the Marsh connection, many fans have begun comparing Connolly to the legendary Glenn Maxwell, given their shared roles as high-impact spin-bowling all-rounders who have been central to Punjab’s history.
However, the 22-year-old remains grounded, acknowledging that while he bats and bowls with the same versatility, he still has a significant journey ahead to match the ‘Big Show’s’ international accolades. Addressing these lofty comparisons, Connolly remarked, “Yeah, I think the comparisons to Maxi, I’ll take it. But he is a world-class player. I’m a long way from being as good as him.”
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