IPL 2024: PBKS Assistant Coach Brad Haddin Focuses On Young Players In Final Matches

Punjab Kings Assistant Coach Brad Haddin has stated that the team management is focusing on giving maximum exposure to inexperienced players in the remaining two matches of IPL 2024.

PBKS will return to action against Rajasthan Royals at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, on Wednesday (May 15) before facing Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday (May 19). The franchise aims to end the season positively.

Despite not progressing further in the competition, the Kings squad believes the remaining two games offer a good chance for younger players to express themselves freely and make a mark in the tournament.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday (May 14), Haddin hinted at providing youngsters an opportunity in the upcoming matches against RR and SRH.

"We want the guys to play with freedom. Tomorrow's game is for them to go out there and express themselves. It is another opportunity for younger guys in the team to develop," Haddin said.

"We are confident that they will take this opportunity and put on a show with the skills we know they have. The players must see these games as opportunities to get that big score and have that breakout performance in the IPL with which they can kick on for years to come."

"It's tough being eliminated. But in this tournament, there are always good opportunities to play against quality oppositions. From our point of view, we want to make sure that the players forget what has happened before and focus on where they can improve," the former Australia international added.

Rajasthan Royals have been one of the top teams in the ongoing Indian Premier League season, maintaining a consistent winning run. Haddin acknowledged RR's quality but added that their focus will remain on developing their own players.

"We know the quality that Rajasthan Royals have. They have got some really good bowlers up front with Boult, two quality spinners in the middle, and a lot of power at the back. But it's important that we get our process right. We focus on continuing to develop our players," Haddin said.

With Liam Livingstone and Kagiso Rabada returning home due to injuries, Punjab Kings are expected to make a few changes against Rajasthan. On being asked about the possible playing team, Haddin kept his cards close to his chest.

"There will be a few changes with Livingstone and Rabada returning home. So, we will meet later tonight to finalise the playing squad. It will depend on what happens tonight with the dew and different things like that on the surface," he said.

While Livingstone and Rabada are set to miss the remaining two matches, English pair Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran are likely to feature in the match against RR on Wednesday (May 15) before jetting back home for the series against Pakistan.