Punjab Kings (PBKS) have had a memorable encounter in their high-stakes clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025. Despite posting a low total on the board, the hosts managed to bundle out KKR for an even low total and managed to script a thrilling win in Mullanpur.
However, their challenges haven’t just been on-field. A recent injury to New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson, sustained during a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, left a crucial gap in the bowling department. Stepping into this void is a fresh face for IPL audiences—Australia’s Xavier Bartlett.
A low-cost gem at the IPL auction
PBKS secured Bartlett’s services for just INR 80 lakh during the mega auction—a bargain given his recent exploits in world cricket. The 26-year-old fast bowler from Australia made his IPL debut against KKR and impressed one and all.
Memorable debut for Xavier Bartlett
Bartlett made a noteworthy first impression with the ball for Punjab Kings. The right-arm seamer bowled three overs, conceding 30 runs. While he was a bit on the expensive side, he provided a vital breakthrough during PBKS’s defence of a modest total. Bartlett dismissed KKR opener Quinton de Kock for just 2 runs, giving his team a much-needed early boost.
What Bartlett brings to Punjab Kings
Bartlett’s arrival adds much-needed firepower to the PBKS bowling unit. With his knack for early breakthroughs, disciplined line and length, and ability to contribute lower down the order, he could prove to be one of the most influential under-the-radar signings of IPL 2025. If his international form is anything to go by, Punjab Kings may have just uncovered their X-factor in Bartlett.
Height, pace, and precision
Standing tall at 6’2″, Bartlett brings a consistent pace in the 130s kmph range. But it’s not just raw speed—Bartlett is recognized for his deceptive change-ups and ability to move the ball, especially during the powerplay. His swing bowling up front can be a game-changer for PBKS, especially on Indian pitches that offer early movement.
BBL breakout star
Bartlett made his mark in the Big Bash League (BBL) with the Brisbane Heat, where he emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the 2023-24 season. He picked up 20 wickets at an impressive average of 14.70. His BBL performances not only showcased his wicket-taking ability but also earned him recognition as a dependable short-format bowler. In 64 T20 appearances, Bartlett has already bagged 80 wickets—figures that underline his consistency and threat with the ball.
A sporting legacy and a multi-talented athlete
Xavier’s sporting journey began in Adelaide, shaped by a strong athletic environment. His father, Kym Bartlett, played Australian Rules Football in South Australia’s state league, instilling a fierce competitive drive in Xavier from an early age.
Interestingly, Bartlett wasn’t always fixated on cricket. As a youngster, he excelled in swimming—particularly the backstroke—and collected several state-level medals. His versatility in sports is a testament to his overall athletic ability.
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Handy with the bat
While primarily a bowler, Bartlett isn’t a pushover with the bat. In a first-class match against New South Wales, he displayed grit and composure by scoring twin half-centuries—his maiden fifties in red-ball cricket. This ability to contribute down the order makes him a valuable asset in any format.
Making waves in international cricket
Following his stellar BBL season, Bartlett earned his maiden Cricket Australia central contract. January 2024 marked a breakthrough moment when he was called up to Australia’s ODI squad as a replacement for the injured Jhye Richardson during the West Indies series.
In his ODI debut, Bartlett made an immediate impact, taking four wickets and bagging the Player of the Match award. He replicated the feat in the very next game—another four-wicket haul and another Player of the Match trophy—sealing the Player of the Series honour in his very first assignment.
He transitioned into T20Is the following month, debuting in Perth during the third game of the series against West Indies. Filling in for Josh Hazlewood, Bartlett took two wickets and continued to impress with his adaptability across formats.
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