Former India batter Ambati Rayudu has revealed a fascinating detail behind Punjab Kings’ rise as one of the IPL’s most explosive batting sides, pointing to a unique six-hitting technique introduced by Ricky Ponting. The former India batter explained how Ponting used a simple squash ball inside a batter’s glove to unlock better bat speed, a method he believes is now reflecting in PBKS’s power-hitting surge.
Having worked closely with Ponting during their time at Mumbai Indians, both as teammates and later under his coaching, Rayudu explained how the method helped him personally while also highlighting its wider impact. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, he credited Ponting’s approach for PBKS’s growing reputation as a six-hitting force.
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“A point about Ricky Ponting — I’ve made this earlier as well — he is a brilliant coach when it comes to helping batsmen hit a lot of sixes. He actually put a squash ball in my glove during games to free up the bottom hand, and that improves bat speed. And it is no surprise that Punjab have been hitting so many sixes, because he’s the head coach and has an amazing way of making you practise those six-hitting skills. I think that is one really, really important reason,” Rayudu said.
“Everybody can hit sixes, but getting that bat speed through the ball is very, very important. I think that gives you a lot of confidence. And always, it’s confidence that helps you hit success more than your ability or strength. It is confidence, backed up 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 have carried that momentum into the 2026 season, already smashing 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 intent-driven. Batters like Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh have thrived in this setup, combining confidence with clean ball-striking.
WHAT IS PONTING’S SPECIAL SIX-HITTING TRICK?
The technique itself is simple but effective. A squash ball is placed inside the batter’s bottom-hand glove, creating a slight bulge that prevents the player from gripping the bat too tightly with the lower hand.
This allows the top hand to take control, improving bat swing and generating better bat speed through the hitting arc. The added resistance also helps players develop a freer swing, reducing stiffness and enabling more powerful contact.
Interestingly, a similar method was used by Ponting’s former Australia teammate Adam Gilchrist during the 2007 World Cup, based on advice from his coach Bob Meuleman. The principle remains the same — free the hands, trust the swing, and let bat speed do the work.
HOW PBKS THRASHED CSK IN CHEPAUK
PBKS’s batting philosophy was on full display against Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk. Chasing 210, they approached the target with clarity and aggression, never allowing the required rate to climb out of control.
Priyansh Arya set the tone with a blistering 39 off just 11 balls, immediately putting CSK on the back foot. From there, captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a composed half-century, ensuring stability amid the attacking approach.
Despite CSK managing to post 209, their bowlers struggled to build pressure. PBKS’s intent and execution meant the chase was wrapped up in just 18.4 overs, extending Chennai’s struggles at home.
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