Ahead of the 2023 edition of the India Premier League (IPL), Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to appoint Trevor Bayliss as the head coach.

The 59-year-old has an impressive CV as a coach, having guided England to their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019. He also has the experience of coaching in the IPL and was most recently associated with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Under him, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won the IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.

Bayliss replaces India legend Anil Kumble, whose contract was not renewed after PBKS failed to make the playoffs in his three-year stint.

“The team has decided to go ahead with Trevor who is among the best in the business and has a proven record. The management is hoping that the team goes on to win the title under his guidance,” an IPL source told PTI.

As per the report, the paperwork on Trevor Bayliss’ signing is expected to be completed soon.

Punjab Kings, previously known as Kings XI Punjab, are yet to win the IPL title and their only final appearance came in 2014. They have finished sixth in the last four seasons.

In the most recent IPL, PBKS failed to register two consecutive victories in the league stage, which led to their early exit.

Another key decision that the management needs to make is about captaincy. Under Mayank Agarwal, Punjab Kings endured a dismal IPL 2022 campaign, winning just 7 out of their 14 league matches.

Mayank also had a terrible time with the bat in the last IPL season, amassing only 196 runs from 12 innings at an abysmal average of 16.33. He was also dropped in the batting line-up in the later half of the season. Agarwal was appointed skipper after the departure of KL Rahul to Lucknow Super Giants.

According to the report, the owners and management have a lot of faith in Mayank Agarwal’s abilities and he could get another year to lead the side.

(With PTI inputs)