In a surprising move, Sanjay Bangar has been appointed as Punjab Kings’ head of cricket development, marking his return to the franchise after his first stint ended in 2016. The decision, described as a “homecoming” by Ness Wadia, co-owner of Punjab Kings, signals a unified effort among all promoters to bring Bangar back into the fold.
Bangar, a former Indian cricketer with extensive coaching experience, had a tumultuous relationship with the franchise’s promoters during his previous tenure. However, Wadia emphasized that Bangar’s return was a unanimous decision, dismissing any notion of acrimony in their past association.
Nes Wadia said
“We took the opportunity to hire him again, and the decision was unanimous amongst all the promoters. We all wanted Sanjay back because he was with us earlier when he started his career and now he’s coached for India,” stated Ness Wadia, expressing his satisfaction with the development.
Despite reports of differences leading to Bangar’s departure in 2016, Wadia clarified that there was no unceremonious parting during the initial stint. The co-owner expressed hope that Bangar’s second tenure would be longer, bringing in a wealth of experience to the team.
“I’m very happy that he’s going to bring, you know, all his experience with Trevor [Bayliss], with Shikhar [Dhawan, the captain], and with the whole team,” Wadia commented, anticipating a positive impact on the team’s structure. He further added, “Punjab Kings will be a force to reckon with in the years to come.”
Punjab Kings experienced their best season under Bangar’s leadership in 2014, reaching the IPL final. The co-owners are optimistic that, along with Trevor Bayliss and Shikhar Dhawan, Bangar will contribute to taking the team to greater heights in future seasons.
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