Mitchell Owen is in the running to replace Josh Inglis in the Punjab Kings batting order, following Inglis’s recent move to the Lucknow Super Giants. This transition opens a significant opportunity for Owen, who is among several candidates vying for the crucial spot in the lineup.
Owen’s potential as a replacement has garnered attention from head coach Ricky Ponting, who noted that both Owen and teammate Cooper Connolly could serve as like-for-like replacements for Inglis. “Yeah, absolutely (on whether Connolly or Owen can be a like-for-like replacement for Inglis),” Ponting stated, highlighting the confidence he has in Owen’s abilities.
Inglis played a significant role for Punjab Kings in the previous IPL season, making his departure a notable loss for the team. As the Kings look to maintain their competitive edge, the decision on who will fill Inglis’s shoes is crucial.
Alongside Owen and Connolly, Suryansh Shedge and Vishnu Vinod are also being considered for the batting order vacancy. Ponting has seen Connolly and Owen be ultra-destructive at the top of the order in the Big Bash League, which adds to their appeal as candidates.
“I have seen Connolly and Owen be ultra-destructive at the top of the order for their respective BBL teams,” Ponting remarked, emphasizing their potential impact in the IPL.
The decision on who replaces Inglis may ultimately depend on pitch conditions, as Ponting noted, “If there is a bit of grass and if there is good pace and bounce, it might be easier for the overseas guys. If the surface is a little drier and on the slower side, it might be easier for an Indian player.”
As the Punjab Kings prepare for the upcoming season, the team is weighing its options carefully. Observers are keen to see how Owen and his competitors perform in the lead-up to the IPL, as their performances could determine the final decision.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for the announcement of Inglis’s replacement, but the anticipation surrounding Owen’s potential inclusion continues to build.
