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THE Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a stage where young talents develop into global stars, and for the 22-year-old Cooper Connollythe 2026 season represents the final step forward. After being acquired by Kings of Punjab for Rs 3 crore at 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 learns from Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer
One of the most anticipated aspects of Connolly’s first stint in the IPL is the opportunity to play under the able guidance of Shreyas Iyer. Having reached the IPL final with three different franchises and captain Horsemen Knights of Calcutta winning a title just a year ago, Iyer is widely regarded as one of the best tactical minds in the T20 format. Connolly revealed that he had already made 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 wants to understand the nuances of captaincy and match awareness that made Iyer a perennial success in the league. According to ESPNcricinfo, Connolly expressed his enthusiasm and he further believes that these interactions will be crucial in his adaptation to the high-pressure environment of the IPL, “When I was there for Australia A against India A, I spoke to Shreyas a little bit and just watching him do his job – and even watching him in Australia – he’s a world-class player. So I want to think 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
Connolly’s connection to Punjab runs deeper than just an auction purchase, as he steps into a franchise where his idol, Shaun Maraiscreated a lasting legacy spanning nearly a decade. Marsh was the franchise’s first Orange Cap winner in 2008 and remains a beloved icon among Punjab fans, a status Connolly hopes to eventually emulate through his own performances.
“Shaun Marsh was a hell of a player; if anyone is halfway through his career, he’s done well. I still talk to him from time to time. I think the main thing I took from him is his ability to handle situations – it doesn’t matter if it’s three for not much or one for something – just being able to control his emotions and do whatever the team needs. I’m sure over the next few months I’ll be talking to him about his time at the Punjab, how he enjoyed it and what worked for him But yes, I would like to leave a legacy for Punjab. If I get a chance, I hope I can etch my name in history and win the trophies for Punjab. Connolly added.
Beyond the Marsh connection, many fans began comparing Connolly to the legendary Glenn Maxwellgiven their shared roles as high-impact spin-bowling all-rounders who played a pivotal role in Punjab’s history.
However, the 22-year-old remains grounded, recognizing that while he hits and plays with the same versatility, he still has a long way to go to match the international accolades of the “Big Show.” Addressing these lofty comparisons, Connolly remarked: “Yes, I think the comparisons with Maxi, I will accept it. But he is a world class player. I am nowhere near as good as him.”
