Former India batsman Ambati Rayudu has revealed a fascinating detail behind the rise of the Punjab Kings as one of the most explosive IPL batting sides, pointing to the unique six-strike technique introduced by Ricky Ponting. The former India batsman explained how Ponting used a simple squash ball in the batsman’s glove to unlock higher bat speed, a method he believes is now reflected in the surge in PBKS power.
Having worked closely with Ponting during their time with Mumbai Indians, both as teammates and later under his coaching, Rayudu explained how the method helped him personally, while highlighting its wider impact. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, he credited Ponting’s approach for PBKS’ growing reputation as a six-hitting powerhouse.
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“A note on Ricky Ponting – I’ve mentioned this before – he’s a great coach when it comes to helping batsmen hit a lot of sixes. He actually put a squash ball in my glove during the game to free up the lower hand and that improves the bat speed. And it’s no surprise that Punjab really hit so many sixes because he’s the master coach on how to hit those sixes and I think that’s an important way to coach one six.” reason,” said Rayudu.
“Anybody can hit sixes, but getting that bat speed through the ball is very, very important. I think it gives you a lot of confidence. And it’s always confidence that helps you hit success more than your ability or strength. It’s confidence backed by bat speed,” he added.
Rayudu’s insight comes at a time when PBKS have built a strong identity around aggressive batting. After finishing runners-up in IPL 2025, they carried that momentum into the 2026 season as they smashed 23 sixes in just two matches – 14 against Gujarat Titans and nine against Chennai Super Kings.
Historically, PBKS have been among the leading six-hitting teams in the IPL with 1,686 sixes to their name, but under Ponting the approach has become more structured and purpose-driven. Batsmen like Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh have thrived in this setup, combining confidence with clean hitting of the ball.
WHAT IS PONTING’S SPECIAL SIX-STROKE TRICK?
The technique itself is simple but effective. The squash ball is placed in the lower glove of the hitter, creating a slight bulge that prevents the player from gripping the racket too tightly with the lower hand.
This allows the top hand to take control, improve the swing of the bat and generate better bat speed in the swing arc. The added resistance also helps players develop a freer swing, reducing stiffness and allowing for stronger contact.
Interestingly, a similar method was used by Ponting’s former Australian teammate Adam Gilchrist during the 2007 World Cup on the advice of his coach Bob Meuleman. The principle remains the same – relax your hands, trust the swing and let the bat speed do the work.
HOW PBKS thrashed CSK IN CHEPAUK
The batting philosophy of PBKS was on full display against Chennai Super Kings in Chepauk. They chased the 210 and approached the target with clarity and aggression, never letting the required speed get out of control.
Priyansh Arya set the tone with a blistering 39 off just 11 balls and immediately put CSK on the back foot. From there, skipper Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a calm half-century, providing stability amid the attacking approach.
Although CSK managed to post 209, their bowlers struggled to build pressure. The intent and execution of PBKS meant that the chase was wrapped up in just 18.4 overs, extending Chennai’s run at home.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
04 Apr 2026 09:55 IST
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