James Hopes and Brad Haddin have ended their stints as the fast-bowling and fielding coaches for the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League. Both have assumed new responsibilities with domestic Australian cricket teams: Hopes is now head coach of Queensland and the Brisbane Heat, whilst Haddin is the head coach for New South Wales.
These departures were anticipated, given their new appointments in Australia. Their exit leaves Punjab Kings’ head coach Ricky Ponting with notable gaps to fill in the support team. Additionally, Sairaj Bahutule, the spin-bowling coach for the 2026 IPL season, has transitioned to a similar role with the Indian men’s national team.
Hopes has history with Ponting, having worked together previously at the Delhi Capitals, and he spent two valuable seasons at Punjab Kings. Haddin has been part of the Punjab setup since 2022, starting during Trevor Bayliss’ reign as head coach.
Currently, both coaches are participating in the Sheffield Shield, with Hopes leading Queensland against Western Australia in Perth, while Haddin oversees New South Wales in their clash with Tasmania in Sydney.
