Legendary Australian player Ricky Ponting has left an indelible mark on the IPL, both as a player and a coach. While his on-field days may be behind him, his leadership and cricketing expertise have helped shape teams like the Delhi Capitals (DC) over recent years. After coaching DC for six seasons without securing an IPL title, Ponting’s future now seems to be taking a different direction, with rumours linking him to new opportunities in the league.
Ponting’s tenure with Delhi Capitals
Ponting joined the Delhi Capitals as head coach in 2018. Under his leadership, the team experienced a revival, making it to the playoffs in three consecutive seasons 2019, 2020, and 2021. His coaching contributed to one of DC’s best seasons in 2020, where the franchise reached its first-ever IPL final. Ponting’s ability to groom young talent like Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, and Shreyas Iyer earned him praise, and his tactical acumen was often credited for the team’s steady rise.
Why Delhi Capitals and Ponting parted ways
The 2023 and 2024 seasons were particularly challenging for Delhi Capitals. Despite strong individual performances, the team failed to build momentum. As losses piled up, it became evident that a change was needed. The decision to part ways was reportedly mutual, with Ponting acknowledging that a new voice could be beneficial for the team’s future.
Rumours of Ponting’s new role with PBKS
As Ponting’s exit from DC made headlines, rumours began circulating that he was in talks with Punjab Kings (PBKS). While no official confirmation has been made, reports suggest that the two parties are close to finalizing a deal. If Ponting were to join PBKS, his experience and leadership could significantly boost the team, which has struggled to find consistency in recent years.
Ponting’s coaching style is known for emphasizing discipline, aggression, and smart cricket. If he joins Punjab Kings, he could work alongside their current players to bring stability and direction to the team’s performance.
Punjab Kings, a franchise with immense potential, has consistently underperformed in recent seasons. Their failure to qualify for the playoffs has left the management searching for new solutions. A coach like Ponting could bring the tactical nous and leadership required to turn things around.
Apart from PBKS, another IPL franchise reportedly interested in Ponting is Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR, known for bringing in high-profile coaching talent, has reportedly set its sights on both Ponting and South African legend Jacques Kallis as they prepare for the IPL 2025 mega auction. Rahul Dravid’s return to Rajasthan Royals (RR) indicates that former players are once again becoming hot commodities in the IPL coaching circuit.
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