Cricket icon Ricky Ponting has thrown his support behind Perth Scorchers' emerging talent Cooper Connolly, anticipating a significant batting resurgence in the upcoming Big Bash League final. Ponting, who will provide expert commentary for Channel 7's coverage, expressed unwavering confidence in the young all-rounder's ability to perform under pressure.
Season of Contrasts for Connolly
Connolly's BBL campaign began spectacularly with two rapid half-centuries in the Scorchers' opening matches. However, the subsequent nine appearances proved challenging, yielding just 69 runs at an average of 7.67. His recent shift down the batting order to number five in The Qualifier against Sydney Sixers did not immediately reverse his fortunes, though Perth secured victory and hosting rights for Sunday's championship decider.
Proven Performer in Pressure Situations
The 20-year-old Western Australian has already demonstrated remarkable composure in high-stakes matches. During just his second top-level T20 innings in the 2022-23 final, Connolly smashed a nerveless 25 from only 11 deliveries, steering Perth to a memorable triumph over Brisbane Heat at Optus Stadium.
"The thing about these young boys, they don't have some of the battle scars the older guys have," Ponting told The West Australian. "He's a very clean striker of the ball, he doesn't move around too much. On that wicket that they know and understand so well over there, I wouldn't be surprised to see him bounce back and get some runs in The Final."
Ponting's Personal Interest
Ponting has maintained particular interest in Connolly's development since Kings XI Punjab, the Indian Premier League franchise he coaches, secured the all-rounder for approximately $500,000 in November's auction. While Connolly's batting has faltered, his bowling has shown marked improvement, claiming 15 wickets - the highest tally among Perth players this season.
"He's been a really big reason why the Scorchers have found themselves where they have with his wicket-taking ability," Ponting noted. "To be able to get that initial breakthrough with the new ball has been pretty big."
Versatility Attracts IPL Attention
Ponting highlighted Connolly's dual capabilities as particularly valuable for Kings XI Punjab's strategy. "What (Josh) Inglis provided us with in that No.3 batting slot, there's a chance Cooper could do that for us, and then offer up some new-ball or middle-overs bowling as well, which he's excelled at this year with the Scorchers."
Beardman's Emergence Bolsters Scorchers
Another significant factor in Perth's ninth BBL final appearance has been the rapid development of fast bowler Mahli Beardman. The 20-year-old speedster has claimed eight wickets across the team's last four matches, including dismissing in-form batter Steve Smith during The Qualifier.
"The back half of this tournament, he's really grown. You can just see that he's a lot more confident in what he's trying to do now," Ponting observed. "His pace has got better, he's got quicker through the tournament because he's more confident in what he's doing."
International Recognition Beckons
Beardman will depart for Pakistan on Monday as part of Australia's T20 squad, where he appears poised to make his international debut. Ponting described this as a "great opportunity" for the young bowler, noting his growing confidence within the national setup over the past twelve months.
The Big Bash League final between Perth Scorchers and their opponent will be broadcast live and free on Channel Seven and 7plus, with Ponting providing expert analysis alongside the commentary team.
