Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Unbeaten in IPL 2026 so far, Punjab Kings have found a winning formula built not just on performances, but on a strong dressing-room culture — something all-rounder Cooper Connolly says is driving their success.Punjab Kings continued their dominant run with a 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants, powered by Connolly’s 87 off 46 balls and a stunning 182-run stand with Priyansh Arya (93 off 37). The victory kept them firmly on top of the standings, extending their unbeaten streak.But for Connolly, the real difference lies off the field.“We all have discussions about what works for each other, and we take little things out of each other’s books. We’ve enjoyed sort of taking little notes off each other,” he said, highlighting the team’s collaborative approach.Learning culture driving PBKS’ surgeConnolly emphasised that the focus within the squad is on constant improvement rather than individual milestones.“We’re all looking to try and get better, that’s what the game’s about, be the best team there is. We’re looking forward to plenty more notes and messages from each other to get better as a group and a squad, and not my game.”That shared mindset has translated into consistent performances, with PBKS dropping points only once — in a rain-affected match — while winning the rest convincingly.Connolly also reserved special praise for captain Shreyas Iyer, crediting his leadership for creating a positive environment.“He just leads by example, he’s always making his group feel comfortable around him, and he’s always about just trying to get better and encouraging people — and making sure we do it with a smile on our face.”Big partnership sets the toneReflecting on his match-winning stand, Connolly admitted he was left admiring Arya’s brilliance from the other end.“I was at the other end just in awe a little bit there, because I couldn’t get off strike, but yeah, just enjoying watching him bat,” he said.Connolly added that the team’s approach remains simple — play positive cricket and capitalise on opportunities.“You’re just trying to play good cricket shots, put the pressure on the bowling attack, and take advantage of the loose balls, and I think we did that tonight.”Even minor setbacks, like dropped catches, haven’t derailed Punjab’s momentum.“It’s cricket… people drop catches. We just look to move forward and put our best foot forward for the next game.”Also See IPL Orange Cap Holder and IPL Purple Cap Holder
