After a seven-year association with Delhi Capitals, former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has taken on a new challenge as the head coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for IPL 2025. Ponting, who was removed from his position at Delhi Capitals after IPL 2024, had an extended run with the franchise but couldn’t secure the elusive IPL title during his tenure.
Punjab Kings Appoint Ponting as Head Coach for 4 Years
Ponting’s new role with Punjab Kings comes with a four-year contract, giving him ample time to reshape the team’s fortunes. A Punjab Kings official shared this news, indicating that Ponting will play a major role in the team’s strategy, especially during the upcoming mega auction before IPL 2025. He will also have the authority to make the final decisions regarding the coaching staff.
Punjab’s Struggle in IPL Continues, Ponting is the Sixth Coach in 7 Years
Punjab Kings, much like Delhi Capitals, have had a rough history in the IPL. The team has never won an IPL title and has been struggling to even make it to the playoffs, managing this feat only twice in their entire IPL journey. For the past 10 seasons, the team hasn’t qualified for the playoffs, finishing ninth on the points table in 2024. With Ponting’s appointment, Punjab is hoping to end this playoff drought.
Ponting is the sixth head coach to take charge of Punjab Kings in the last seven years. His coaching staff will likely see changes, with previous coaches like Trevor Bayliss, Sanjay Bangar, Charl Langeveldt, and Sunil Joshi being part of the setup in IPL 2024.
Ponting’s Previous Success with Mumbai Indians
Ponting brings a wealth of IPL experience to the table, having worked with Mumbai Indians earlier. During his time with Mumbai, he played a crucial role in making Rohit Sharma the captain of the team in 2013. Under Rohit’s captaincy, Mumbai Indians became one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
