The Punjab Kings are facing a significant coaching overhaul ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season. Beyond the previously confirmed departure of spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule, the franchise must now fill at least three additional vacancies within the support staff led by head coach Ricky Ponting. Forcing the franchise management to go in search of at least three new ones ahead of IPL 2027, a couple of other coaches have also resigned from the Ricky Ponting-headed support staff.
Fielding coach Brad Haddin and fast-bowling coach James Hopes have both resigned from their respective positions. Both Australians, who recently informed the franchise of their decisions, are understood to have secured roles in the Big Bash League. Hopes, a former pacer, had transitioned to the Punjab franchise from the Delhi Capitals alongside Ponting several seasons ago, while Haddin had remained with the team following his tenure under the previous management led by Trevor Bayliss.
Sairaj Bahutule exited his role immediately following the conclusion of the IPL 19 season to join the Indian national team setup as a spin-bowling coach under Gautam Gambhir. Bahutule had originally joined the Kings ahead of IPL 19, filling the vacancy left by Sunil Joshi, who departed to take a coaching position at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. A former member of the Rajasthan Royals team, Bahutule had joined the franchise ahead of IPL 19, having come in place of Sunil Joshi who took charge as a spin bowling coach at the Centre of Excellence (Coe) in home town.
Head coach Ricky Ponting now holds the responsibility of selecting the new personnel. While franchise management may provide recommendations, a source stated that the final hiring decisions rest with the head coach, noting, “The head coach will take the call.” The team is aiming to finalize these appointments ahead of the mid-December auction. Management is currently coordinating with Ponting, who will oversee interviews with potential candidates, though the coach has not yet provided further comment on the process.
