Punjab Kings have started their IPL 2025 campaign in dominant fashion, securing two consecutive wins, and a significant part of their success is being attributed to the influence of their new head coach, Ricky Ponting. The former Australian captain, known for his tactical brilliance and aggressive approach, has brought in a fresh perspective to the team, emphasizing a positive and fearless brand of cricket. Players like Prabhsimran Singh and Nehal Wadhera have been vocal about how Ponting’s mindset has transformed the dressing room atmosphere, instilling confidence and self-belief in the squad.
In their latest 8-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on April 1, PBKS looked like a well-oiled machine. Prabhsimran Singh’s scintillating 69-run knock at the top provided the perfect start, and the run chase was expertly completed by captain Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera, ensuring the team maintained its winning streak.
After the match, Nehal Wadhera spoke highly of Ricky Ponting’s coaching style, calling him the best coach he has ever worked with. According to Wadhera, Ponting’s ability to maintain a consistently positive atmosphere in the dressing room has been a game-changer for PBKS.
"He is one of the best coaches I have ever worked with. I've never heard any negative talk from his mouth, and that’s the best thing about him. He always speaks positively, and when a coach gives you that kind of encouragement, it automatically boosts your confidence," Wadhera said during the post-match press conference.
Prabhsimran Singh echoed similar thoughts, revealing that Ponting and the coaching staff always push the players to back their game and maintain a winning mindset.
"They are legends. Whenever they speak, it is always positive. There’s no hesitation or doubt in their approach. They tell us to go in with just one mindset, and that is to win. They have asked us to trust our game. If I get set, I just have to try and finish the game," Prabhsimran said, reflecting on the impact of Ponting’s words.
Ponting’s Move to PBKS: A New Chapter in His Coaching Career
Ponting’s move to Punjab Kings after spending seven seasons with Delhi Capitals (DC) was one of the biggest talking points before IPL 2025. While his tenure with DC saw some success, including a runner-up finish in IPL 2020, a title remained elusive. With PBKS, expectations are sky-high, especially after the team made some bold moves in the IPL 2025 mega auction, building a squad designed for a serious title challenge.
So far, the strategy seems to be working, with Punjab Kings currently sitting second on the points table, behind only Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Ponting’s aggressive, no-fear approach is clearly rubbing off on the players, and the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Prabhsimran Singh, and Nehal Wadhera have already stepped up, leading from the front.
Can PBKS Finally End Their IPL Trophy Drought?
Punjab Kings, despite being one of the most entertaining teams in IPL history, have never won the title. Their closest attempt came in 2014, when they finished as runners-up, losing to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. Over the years, inconsistency has plagued them, with multiple captaincy and coaching changes disrupting team balance.
However, under the strong leadership of Shreyas Iyer and the tactical guidance of Ricky Ponting, this season looks different. PBKS have started with two back-to-back wins, showing remarkable composure and confidence. If they continue to build on this momentum, this could finally be the season when the Punjab Kings break their IPL curse and lift the trophy.
With Ponting’s legendary winning mentality, Iyer’s leadership, and in-form stars like Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and Liam Livingstone, Punjab Kings might just be the team to watch out for in IPL 2025. Their next challenge will be maintaining consistency and handling pressure in high-stakes matches, but with the positive mindset instilled by Ponting, PBKS fans have every reason to dream big this year.
