Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer is set to be appointed as the new head coach of Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL 2025 season. The franchise has been on the lookout for a new coach to lead them to their elusive maiden IPL title, following a series of disappointing seasons under Trevor Bayliss.
Sources indicate that Punjab Kings prefer an Indian coach who can leverage a deep understanding of local pitches. Sanjay Bangar, the former batting coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, was initially considered a strong candidate. However, recent reports from the Indian Express suggest that the management has decided on Wasim Jaffer.
Jaffer, who was part of the IPL 2024 commentary panel, has a history with Punjab Kings. He served as the team’s batting coach during the 2019-21 IPL cycle and returned as a batting consultant for the 2023 season. His familiarity with the team’s dynamics and Indian cricket conditions makes him a suitable candidate for the head coach position.
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Under Trevor Bayliss, Punjab Kings finished eighth and ninth in IPL 2023 and 2024, respectively. Despite no complaints about his coaching style, the results were not up to the mark. Bayliss, who previously found success with Kolkata Knight Riders and the England national team, could not replicate those achievements with Punjab Kings, prompting the franchise to seek new leadership.
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Wasim Jaffer brings a wealth of coaching experience to the table. Post-retirement, he has coached the Bangladesh youth side and served as the head coach for Uttarakhand and Odisha in Indian domestic cricket. His extensive coaching background and deep understanding of the game are expected to be valuable assets for Punjab Kings.
As the IPL gears up for its 18th edition with a mega auction, franchises are looking to overhaul their squads and coaching staff. Punjab Kings aim to build a core team that can change their fortunes and finally capture the IPL title. The appointment of Wasim Jaffer is seen as a strategic move in this direction.
