'When I Play My Best': PBKS star Cooper Connolly shares Success Recipe after stellar IPL 2026 Debut

Punjab Kings launched their IPL 2026 season in style, securing a thrilling three-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in front of a packed home crowd at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, PBKS delivered a disciplined bowling display to limit the Titans to 162/6. Fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak spearheaded the attack with impressive figures of 3/34, disrupting GT's momentum at key stages.

In the chase, Australian youngster Cooper Connolly, making his IPL debut, stood out as the anchor. The 22-year-old remained unbeaten on 72 off just 44 balls, laced with 5 fours and 5 sixes. Despite a middle-order wobble, Connolly guided Punjab Kings to the target of 163, sealing the win with five balls remaining.

Cooper Connolly shares Success Story after IPL 2026 Debut

Speaking after his match-winning performance, Connolly highlighted his straightforward approach: "I think it is just about reacting to what is in front of me and playing the game. I just try to look at the scoreboard every now and then and react to the ball, because that is when I play my best."

The debutant singled out hitting Rashid Khan for a six as his favourite shot of the night. He also praised the team's collective effort, particularly the bowling unit, and thanked the passionate home supporters.

"It is always nice to put my best foot forward for the team, but it was a true team effort, especially with the ball. We want to keep putting on a show for the fans, and hopefully, we did that tonight," he added.

Vijaykumar Vyshak, reflecting on his strong spell, credited the guidance from captain Shreyas Iyer and senior pacer Arshdeep Singh for helping him execute his plans effectively.

"Getting that first wicket gives you a lot of confidence. My three wickets were really well planned, and Shreyas bhai came to me and spoke to me, along with Arshdeep, to help me execute my plans better. Now we will take one game at a time. What is done is done. Tomorrow is a new opponent, and we want to play with a champion mindset against Chennai and continue playing the way we have been doing since last year," Vyshak said.

Punjab Kings will now travel to face Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, April 3.