IPL 2025 : Australia Legend Ricky Ponting Appointed As Head Coach Of Punjab Kings

Ricky Ponting has been named the new head coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

This follows his departure from Delhi Capitals two months ago, where he ended a seven-year stint with the franchise.

Ponting’s appointment marks a significant leadership shift for Punjab Kings, who have not made the IPL playoffs since their runner-up finish in 2014.

Ponting has signed a multi-year deal with PBKS and is expected to take full control over the coaching staff. Decisions on the futures of last season’s coaches, including Trevor Bayliss (head coach), Sanjay Bangar (head of cricket development), Charl Langeveldt (fast-bowling coach), and Sunil Joshi (spin-bowling coach), are still pending. This move makes Ponting the third head coach in four seasons for the team.

One of Ponting’s first tasks will be identifying key players for retention ahead of IPL 2025, pending the finalization of retention rules. The team had notable performers in the 2024 season, including Purple Cap winner Harshal Patel and standout uncapped players like Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma. Punjab also has a strong contingent of players, including left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, leg-spinner Rahul Chahar, and overseas stars like Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Jonny Bairstow, and Kagiso Rabada.

Additionally, Ponting and the management will need to address the captaincy void following Shikhar Dhawan’s recent retirement.

Ponting’s IPL journey began as a player with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2008 and continued with Mumbai Indians, where he stepped down as captain in 2013, allowing Rohit Sharma to take over and lead the team to their first title.

He also served as head coach of Mumbai Indians from 2015 to 2016. With Delhi Capitals, Ponting led the franchise to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2019 to 2021, including a runner-up finish in 2020. After his tenure with Delhi Capitals ended in July 2024, Ponting guided Washington Freedom to a title-winning campaign.

Punjab Kings will be hoping that Ponting’s leadership and vast experience can reverse their fortunes and bring success in IPL 2025.