Reports: Brad Haddin, Sunil Joshi retained by Punjab Kings, James Hopes added to support staff

In the most-recent development in relation to Punjab Kings, newly-instated head coach, Ricky Ponting, has opted on retaining Brad Haddin as the batting and wicketkeeping coach. Notably, the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League will be the former Australian wicketkeeper's third season in the same role. Sunil Joshi, who was also first appointed alongside Haddin, is the other chief component to be retained as the spin bowling coach.

Additionally, another big advancement is in the form of the integration of former Australian all-rounder, James Hopes, as their fast bowling coach. Hopes has previously worked alongside Ponting during the latter's stint at the Delhi Capitals, and they are expected to bring in all their expertise and collaborate seamlessly. As per Cricbuzz, it is being reported that Hopes was offered an extension in terms of his contract after the franchise had not renewed Ponting's agreement. However, Hopes opted to work in tandem with Ponting, who has a four-year deal with the Kings. 

The inclusion of Hopes indirectly implies the departure of ex-Proteas pacer, Charl Langeveldt, who served as the bowling coach for the franchise during the 2020 edition and then returned for the past couple of seasons as their fast-bowling coach. Other vital retentions include strength & conditioning coach, Adrian le Roux, and physiotherapist, Andrew Leipus.

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Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma poised to be retained as uncapped players 

With the deadline for the franchises to submit their retentions fast approaching, there have been quite a few reports circulating regarding the retention of PBKS' star middle-order batters, Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, for INR 4 crore each.

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Other floating speculation is the manner in which Arshdeep Singh would end up getting retained by the franchise. It is conjectured that there is an internal debate in the think tank of the franchise as to whether the Indian pacer is worth retaining for INR 18 crore, the suggested slab for one retention. The consensus is that Arshdeep could be restored into the machinery at a lower cost using the Right To Match card.