Xavier Bartlett Shines on IPL Debut: Punjab Kings’ New Pace Sensation Claims Quinton de Kock’s Wicket
In a thrilling start to his Indian Premier League (IPL) journey, Australian fast bowler Xavier Bartlett announced his arrival in style for Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Tuesday. Stepping in as a replacement for the injured Lockie Ferguson, Bartlett made an instant impact in PBKS’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the PCA New Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh.
Handed the new ball by captain Shikhar Dhawan, the 26-year-old struck gold in his very first over, dismissing KKR’s explosive opener Quinton de Kock to claim his maiden IPL wicket. The South African batter, known for his aggressive starts, was caught off guard by Bartlett’s pace and movement, marking a dream debut for the Aussie pacer.
Despite PBKS struggling with the bat and being bundled out for a paltry 111 runs in 15.3 overs, Bartlett showed grit with a fighting 11 runs off 15 balls, including a boundary. He was one of only five PBKS batters to reach double digits in a disappointing batting display against KKR’s formidable bowling attack led by Andre Russell and Sunil Narine.
Who is Xavier Bartlett? The Rising Star from Down Under
Hailing from Adelaide, Xavier Bartlett has been a name to watch in Australian cricket for a few years now. His journey began with representing Australia at the Under-19 level, where his raw pace and ability to swing the ball caught the eye of selectors. Bartlett soon became a key figure for Queensland in domestic cricket, consistently troubling batters with his disciplined line and length.
His breakthrough moment came during the 2023-24 Big Bash League (BBL) season, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with an impressive 20 wickets in 11 matches. Playing a pivotal role in Brisbane Heat’s title-winning campaign, Bartlett’s performances earned him widespread acclaim and a well-deserved call-up to the Australian national team.
Bartlett made his international debut in February 2024, featuring in 2 ODIs and 7 T20Is so far. In this short span, he has already scalped 19 wickets, including two remarkable four-wicket hauls in the 50-over format. His ability to strike early and bowl tight spells has made him a valuable asset for Australia in white-ball cricket.
A Steal at the IPL Auction
Punjab Kings secured Bartlett’s services for a modest Rs 80 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, a deal that now looks like a masterstroke given his debut performance. With his raw pace, ability to swing the ball both ways, and composure under pressure, Bartlett could be the x-factor PBKS desperately needs in their pace bowling department.
As the IPL season progresses, all eyes will be on this young Australian talent to see if he can replicate his BBL and international heroics on the grand stage of the IPL. For now, dismissing a batter of Quinton de Kock’s caliber on debut is a statement of intent from Xavier Bartlett—a name that cricket fans are unlikely to forget anytime soon.