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After an action-packed mega auction in Bengaluru, all the franchises are set with new-look squads for IPL 2022. Punjab Kings were one team who were probably the most active sides in the auction, which was expected considering the mega purse they were coming in with. They certainly made effective use of their funds as they secured the services of some big names like Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Kagiso Rabada etc.
The head coach Anil Kumble was indeed a happy man after the successful auction. However, there was still a big question mark for the fans - Who will be the batting coach of PBKS? Notably, Wasim Jaffer (who was their batting coach) had officially announced a few days back about him parting ways with the franchise. He had bid adieu to Punjab Kings in his own style on social media.
ALSO READ | Wasim Jaffer says goodbye to Punjab Kings in hilarious style
Although there was no announcement made at that time about his replacement, it looks like team management was just waiting for the mega auction to conclude. Following the successful team creation process, it has been revealed that Jonty Rhodes - who played a key role alongside Anil Kumble at the auction - has now been given additional responsibility.
Along with being the fielding coach of Punjab Kings, the 52-year-old will also be their batting coach. He shares a great bond with Anil Kumble which could be one of the main reasons why head coach and team management wants him to play the dual role for the franchise in IPL 2022. Rhodes is also likely to fill the shoes of Andy Flower, who was the assistant coach last year.
ALSO READ | Complete squad of Punjab Kings after IPL 2022 Mega Auction
Meanwhile, PBKS already have Damien Wright as the fast bowling coach while head coach Anil Kumble will work with the young spin-bowling attack. It will be interesting to see if the franchise continues with a 3-men coaching staff in IPL 2022 or if they get another senior member in the setup ahead of the start of the season.
There are also reports that Punjab Kings will announce their captain in the coming days, with Shikhar Dhawan and Mayank Agarwal being the two leading contenders for the position.