New Delhi: Former Indian off-spinner… Ravichandran Ashwin The compliments poured in Ricky Ponting for the decisive team selection call after Punjab Kings beat Gujarat Titans in a tense IPL 2026 clash, saying the legendary Australian was “proved right once again.”Punjab managed a narrow three-wicket win, but it was the impact of less-than-expected partners that caught Ashwin’s attention. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin admitted that he initially questioned the inclusion decision. Xavier Bartlett finished Azmatullah Omarzai.
“I thought before the start of the game that Azmatullah Omarzai should play. Man, why is Bartlett playing? But the way Bartlett bowled and batted, Ricky Ponting proved him right once again by filling all the places with Australians overseas,” Ashwin said.Bartlett didn’t make a big impact with the ball, returning 0/36 from four overs, but he did make an important cameo with the bat. Coming in at No. 9, he released the pressure in the final over by hitting Prasad Krishna for a six off his very first ball, swinging the momentum back in Punjab’s favour.Connolly’s satisfaction sealed the dealWhile Bartlett provided the fireworks late on, it was young Australian Cooper Connolly who started the chase with a solid 72 off 44 balls. IPL Debut, won player of the match award.
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Ashwin was particularly impressed with the 22-year-old’s composure under pressure. “This is his first game in the IPL. It’s not easy. The guy comes from Australia and has never played cricket in India. It wasn’t a bouncy kind of wicket; it was a skiddy wicket and he adapted and played a very good innings,” he said.“There was a lot of pressure towards the end; nevertheless, he held his nerve and finished the chase well. He is only 22 and he has done so well in the BBL that he has opened everyone’s eyes,” added Ashwin.Despite a short start by Gujarat, Punjab’s young core and Ponting’s tactical decisions ensured they started their campaign on a winning note, reinforcing Ashwin’s belief that experience in the dugout makes a definite difference.
