As the IPL 2025 mega auction draws closer, the buzz around team changes has intensified. Punjab Kings, known for their consistent team overhauls, are reportedly making moves to strengthen their squad. Following the retirement of Shikhar Dhawan, Punjab Kings is looking for a strong leader to guide the team in the upcoming season. The buzz is that Australian opener David Warner could be the one stepping into Dhawan’s shoes.
Ricky Ponting’s Role in Warner’s Potential Move
The recent hiring of Ricky Ponting as the head coach of Punjab Kings has fueled speculations about Warner’s inclusion. Ponting, who had a long tenure with Delhi Capitals, where he also coached Warner, might push for his former captain to join him in Punjab. While Punjab Kings has made no official comment on this possible transfer, Ponting’s influence could pave the way for Warner’s entry into the team.
Warner, who previously captained Sunrisers Hyderabad to an IPL title in 2016, brings a wealth of experience, both as an opener and as a leader. His aggressive playing style and leadership skills could be the missing piece for Punjab, a team that last reached the playoffs a decade ago in 2014.
Will Delhi Capitals Retain Warner?
Though Warner’s inclusion in Punjab Kings looks promising, it depends on whether Delhi Capitals will retain him. Warner’s performance in the last few seasons has shown signs of decline, largely due to injuries and age—he is 37 now. If Delhi decides to release him, it would clear the way for Punjab to sign him in the auction.
The BCCI is yet to announce the official retention rules for IPL 2025, but it is expected that teams will be allowed to retain five players—three Indians and two overseas players. According to reports, Delhi might opt to retain players like Rishabh Pant, Akshar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, along with young talents like Jake Fraser McGurk and Tristan Stubbs, leaving Warner on the potential release list.
A New Era for Punjab Kings?
With Dhawan retiring, Punjab Kings are aiming to bring in fresh leadership and new energy into the squad. Warner’s experience and past success with Sunrisers Hyderabad make him a strong candidate to fill this gap. Ponting, having already taken Punjab to a new coaching level, could use Warner’s experience to turn around the fortunes of a team that has long struggled to make a significant impact in the tournament.
All eyes will be on the mega auction and Delhi’s retention decisions, which will determine whether Warner will don the Punjab jersey in IPL 2025. For now, fans and experts alike are eagerly awaiting the next developments in this potential big move.
