Ricky Ponting will return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025 after being appointed as the head coach of the Punjab Kings (PBKS). Ponting replaces Trevor Bayliss in the role meaning the franchise will have their third head coach in four years.
Bayliss had replaced Anil Kumble in the role ahead of the 2023 season. However, the franchise failed to reach the playoffs in the last two seasons promting another change from the franchise as they continue to search for their first-ever IPL title.
Ponting has signed a bumper four-year deal with the franchise. Previously, he spent seven seasons with the Delhi Captials (DC). During his tenure, the franchise reached their first-ever final in 2020 and also made the playoffs for three consecutive seasons for the first time.
Ponting coached Mumbai Indians (MI) for two seasons and helped them win their second title in 2015.
Why Did Ricky Ponting Join Punjab Kings?
PBKS CEO Satish Menon claimed that Ponting’s experience will help the team build a squad capable of on-field success.
“We are delighted to have Ricky on to guide and build our team for the next 4 seasons. His experience is crucial to help us develop a squad to deliver on-field success. His insights from his international coaching stints and as a television pundit would be vital in identifying talent ahead of the mega auction this year. His ability to develop cricketing and leadership skills will play a crucial role in our success,” said Menon in a statement issued by the franchise.
Ponting promised PBKS fans that the team will be a much different one going forward.
“We are delighted to have Ricky on to guide and build our team for the next 4 seasons. His experience is crucial to help us develop a squad to deliver on-field success. His insights from his international coaching stints and as a television pundit would be vital in identifying talent ahead of the mega auction this year. His ability to develop cricketing and leadership skills will play a crucial role in our success,” said Ponting.
Can Ponting Turn Around PBKS’ Fortunes?
Ponting has a huge task at his hand as PBKS are one of the three founding member teams yet to win the title alongside former franchise Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. However, PBKS’ have been the worst performers among three on the field having made the playoffs just twice.
PBKS made the second round in 2008 when they lost the sem-final to Chennai Super Kings and the final in 2014 when Kolkata Knight Riders defeated them. Since then, PBKS have failed to qualify for the playoffs for a decade.