Punjab Kings’ new head coach Ricky Ponting is gearing up for a transformative season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, with high hopes of crafting the greatest team in the franchise’s history. Taking the helm after a stint with the Delhi Capitals, Ponting’s ambition is not just to win matches but to lift the franchise's first-ever IPL title, having come close in 2014.
Set to lead the Mohali-based franchise this season is Shreyas Iyer, who was signed for a staggering INR 26.75 crore during the mega auction. The Punjab Kings will kick off their campaign against the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 25, 2025.
Ponting shared his vision for the team, elaborating that from day one of training in Dharamsala, he made it clear that the primary goal is to win the title. "The overall vision for this team is to win the IPL. I told the guys on the very first day when I joined the camp in Dharamsala that we were going to create and become the greatest Punjab Kings team that's played," Ponting was quoted as saying in a recent interview.
His emphasis on building a winning mindset is palpable. “Winning is really an attitude thing. If we turn up to play, the opposition turns up to play, if they want to beat us, then it feels like they’re taking something away and I don’t want to let anyone take anything away from me or take anything away from my team,” he stresses, highlighting the importance of resilience.
Ponting has also articulated the importance of blending youth and experience within the squad. The inclusion of promising young talents such as Priyansh Arya, Suryansh Shedge, and Musheer Khan has him particularly excited. “Priyansh Arya, I think, is a very special potential opening batsman for us going forward in the tournament. Depending on which way we go with our overseas make-up, he’s very exciting. Suryansh Shedge is also someone who has been very impressive in our training so far,” he stated.
Musheer Khan, in particular, has already made a notable impact at training, bringing a vibrant energy to the camp. “He’s brought a lot to the group already. He has got an infectious attitude, and around the training ground and around the team so far, he’s been someone that I’ve really enjoyed working with,” Ponting remarked.
As the Punjab Kings prepare for their opening game, the team has seen significant revamping, adding key players such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Arshdeep Singh to bolster their chances. This is part of Ponting's strategy to build a strong, competitive lineup that can endure throughout the grueling tournament.
Reflecting on the team's previous performance, Ponting expressed that despite having never won the IPL, the intention is to change that narrative. “We're on a journey, and we understand that greatness doesn’t come overnight – it’s something we have to create actively,” he said, demonstrating a long-term vision for the franchise.
The path ahead will not be without challenges, as the Punjab Kings navigate a demanding schedule, kicking off against the Titans before facing off against Lucknow Super Giants in an away match and returning home for two crucial games against the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.
This upcoming season holds an air of excitement and anticipation. With Ricky Ponting steering the ship and Shreyas Iyer at the helm, the Punjab Kings aim not just for playoff contention but to etch their name in IPL history by securing that coveted title.
Ponting is fully aware of the expectations resting on his shoulders and the team's combined potential. He is confident that the dedication from both the seasoned and less experienced players will ultimately pave the way for success. In the ever-competitive landscape of the IPL, the Punjab Kings are prepared to take on the challenge ahead, with hopes high and a united team spirit guiding their journey.
