Ambati Rayudu, a former Indian cricketer, has shared an intriguing insight into how Punjab Kings have become one of the IPL’s most formidable batting teams. He credited Ricky Ponting for introducing a unique technique involving a squash ball in the glove to enhance bat speed, attributing this method to Punjab Kings’ remarkable power-hitting performances.
Having closely collaborated with Ponting during their time at Mumbai Indians, both as teammates and later under his coaching, Rayudu emphasized the impact of Ponting’s innovative approach on his own performance and highlighted its broader influence on Punjab Kings’ reputation as a team known for hitting sixes.
“A point about Ricky Ponting — I’ve made this earlier as well — he is a brilliant coach when it comes to helping batsmen hit a lot of sixes. He actually put a squash ball in my glove during games to free up the bottom hand, and that improves bat speed. And it is no surprise that Punjab have been hitting so many sixes, because he’s the head coach and has an amazing way of making you practise those six-hitting skills. I think that is one really, really important reason,” Rayudu explained.
Rayudu’s revelation aligns with Punjab Kings’ recent success in aggressive batting, setting a strong foundation for their performance in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. The team has already demonstrated their power-hitting prowess by smashing 23 sixes in just two matches, showcasing a blend of confidence and clean striking under Ponting’s guidance.
Under Ponting’s tutelage, Punjab Kings have adopted a more structured and purposeful approach towards six-hitting, with key players like Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh excelling in executing this strategy effectively.
Ponting’s special technique involves placing a squash ball in the batter’s bottom-hand glove to enhance bat swing and generate improved bat speed through the hitting arc. This simple yet effective method promotes a freer swing, leading to more powerful contact and reduced stiffness in the player’s stroke.
Interestingly, Ponting’s former Australian teammate Adam Gilchrist utilized a similar technique during the 2007 World Cup, emphasizing the importance of freeing the hands, trusting the swing, and leveraging bat speed to enhance performance.
In a recent match against Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk, Punjab Kings showcased their aggressive batting philosophy by successfully chasing a target of 210 runs with clarity and aggression. Priyansh Arya’s explosive start and Shreyas Iyer’s composed innings played pivotal roles in securing the victory, highlighting Punjab Kings’ dominance in executing their game plan effectively.
Overall, Punjab Kings’ strategic approach to batting, coupled with Ponting’s innovative coaching methods, have propelled them as a formidable force in the IPL, showcasing a blend of skill, confidence, and intent in their performances.