Punjab Kings’ new head coach Ricky Ponting is fired up for the IPL 2025 season, setting high expectations for a franchise that has long struggled to make a mark in the tournament. The former Australian captain, known for his aggressive leadership and unmatched cricketing acumen, is on a mission to reshape Punjab Kings into a championship-winning team. Speaking with meta creators at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, Ponting expressed his confidence in the squad assembled during the recent auction, asserting that this could be the best Punjab Kings side ever.
“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 Dharamshala that we were going to create and become the greatest Punjab Kings team that’s played. That’s the journey that we’re on, and that doesn’t happen overnight. You’ve got to create that,” Ricky Ponting remarked, radiating confidence.
Ponting’s approach emphasizes a winning mentality, a mindset he believes can outclass any opposition. “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 added.
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Ponting is also optimistic about the balance of youth and experience in the squad, a mix he believes is crucial for success. He is particularly excited about young talents like Priyansh Arya and Suryansh Shedge, who have shown promise during training sessions.
“Priyansh Arya, I think, is a very special potential opening batsman for us. Depending on our overseas make-up, he’s very exciting. Suryansh Shedge has also impressed me with his work ethic and hunger,” Ricky Ponting shared.
Musheer Khan, another young player, has caught Ponting’s attention with his infectious energy and positive attitude. “He has brought a lot to the group already. Around the training ground, his attitude is just infectious. He’s someone I’ve really enjoyed working with,” Ponting revealed.
The Australian great also highlighted the crucial role of experienced overseas players in setting the tone for the younger members of the squad.
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“I put a lot of the bait on them to ensure they’re setting the right example. If the overseas boys aren’t doing the right thing, it’s easy for the young Indian guys to not do the right thing either. So, I empower the overseas guys to be the leaders and lead the way,” Ricky Ponting emphasized.
Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 25. With another away game against Lucknow Super Giants, they will then return to their home ground for two critical matches against Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.
