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| Saikat Das/BCCI |
In a recent development, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have appointed Ricky Ponting as their new head coach for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season reported by ESPN CRICINFO. The former Australian captain, who parted ways with Delhi Capitals earlier this year after a seven-year association, will now take charge of PBKS in their quest for their maiden IPL title.
Ponting's Coaching Career
Ricky Ponting, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, has been involved in the IPL coaching setup since 2018 when he took charge of the Delhi Capitals franchise. Under his guidance, the team reached the playoffs for three consecutive seasons from 2019 to 2021, including their first-ever final appearance in 2020. However, Delhi's failure to maintain their top-four finish in the last three seasons led to Ponting's departure in July 2024.
Before his stint with Delhi Capitals, Ponting had also served as the head coach of the Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2016, where he played a crucial role in the team's success. He has also been associated with the Kolkata Knight Riders as a player in the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008.
Challenges Ahead for Ponting
As Ponting takes over the reins of PBKS, he faces several challenges in his quest to transform the team into a consistent performer in the IPL. The franchise has reached the playoffs only twice in its history, with the last appearance coming in 2014 when they finished as runners-up.
One of Ponting's primary tasks will be to identify a potential new captain to succeed Shikhar Dhawan, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket. The new leader will be tasked with instilling a winning mentality in the team and fostering a strong team culture.
Additionally, Ponting will need to work closely with the team management to make crucial decisions regarding player retention and the upcoming major auction, the details of which are still pending official confirmation from the IPL governing council.
PBKS Current Squad
PBKS currently boasts a talented squad with a mix of experienced and young players. The team includes the likes of Harshal Patel, who won the purple cap for the second time in IPL 2024, along with the uncapped Indian pair of Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, who were among the key performers last season.
The squad also features India left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, legspinner Rahul Chahar, and a healthy bunch of overseas players, including the England trio of Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Jonny Bairstow, and South Africa quick Kagiso Rabada.
Conclusion
The appointment of Ricky Ponting as the new head coach of Punjab Kings has generated a lot of excitement among the team's fans and the cricketing fraternity. With his vast experience and proven track record in the IPL, Ponting will be expected to bring a fresh perspective and a winning mentality to the team.
As PBKS prepares for the upcoming IPL 2025 season, all eyes will be on Ponting and his team to see if they can finally break their title drought and bring home the coveted trophy for the first time in the franchise's history.
