Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting attributes the franchise’s remarkable rise in IPL 2025 to a bold auction strategy and the emergence of uncapped Indian players, saying these factors allowed him to fully implement his “play differently” philosophy.
The Australian great, a two-time World Cup-winning captain, has steered the Punjab Kings into their first IPL playoffs since 2014, finishing at the top of the table. However, Ponting remains focused on the bigger prize.
“It’s not just about qualification. We talked about finishing in the top two, and now we’ve finished first. But we’re not done yet,” he said in an exclusive interview to PTI.
Radical Restructuring at the Auction Table
Before taking charge, Ponting made it clear to the franchise owners that he needed full autonomy over team decisions — from squad composition to coaching staff. That freedom saw him take an unconventional approach at the auction, retaining only two uncapped Indian players — Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh — and rebuilding the squad from scratch.
“We copped some criticism initially, but I was very clear about my vision. I wanted this franchise to look and feel different,” Ponting said.
“In our last league game against Mumbai, we had six uncapped players in the XI. That shows how well the plan has worked.”
Uncapped Stars in the Spotlight
Ponting was effusive in his praise for the emerging Indian core, naming at least four players he believes are on the brink of India selection — Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and Shashank Singh.
“Priyansh has been a revelation at the top. Prabhsimran now has the most runs by an uncapped player in IPL history. Wadhera is solid in the middle, and Shashank’s strike rate and finishing ability are elite,” Ponting said.
“Even Harpreet Brar and Vyshak have impressed. They’re definitely on the radar.”
Learning from the Past, Leading the Present
After mixed results in his previous coaching stint with Delhi Capitals, Ponting was determined to create a new culture at Punjab Kings — one marked by boldness, energy, and relentless ambition.
“I’ve said from day one — I wanted us to be daring, dynamic, and play to win from the outset. This isn’t the same old Punjab Kings. We’re not sitting back anymore,” he said.
Asked whether he had a point to prove after seven seasons with Delhi without a title, Ponting was diplomatic but firm:
“I wouldn’t say I had something to prove. We made three consecutive playoffs and a final at DC. But here, I was given full control — that made the difference. Our scouts did a terrific job, and even with Maxwell and Ferguson injured, our Indian players stepped up.”
The Road Ahead
Ponting credits the partnership with captain Shreyas Iyer as a major factor in their resurgence, calling it “magnificent” and crucial to fostering the team’s belief and momentum.
“This group is special — not just the players but the entire support staff. We’ve built something strong, and now it’s time to finish the job.”
With momentum, unity, and a fearless brand of cricket, Punjab Kings look set to challenge for their maiden IPL title — and perhaps rewrite the franchise’s legacy once and for all.
