In a significant coaching reshuffle, former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has signed a four-year contract with Punjab Kings (PBKS), taking over the reins from Trevor Bayliss. This move comes after Ponting’s seven-year tenure with Delhi Capitals ended earlier this year. His appointment makes him the third head coach in four seasons for the Punjab-based franchise.
Ponting’s arrival marks a fresh start for Punjab Kings, who finished in a disappointing ninth place in the 2024 IPL season. Despite consistently building strong squads, PBKS has failed to make it to the IPL playoffs since 2014, a drought the team and its fans are eager to end under Ponting’s leadership.
“Punjab Kings Welcome Ricky Ponting as New Head Coach, Preity Zinta Excited for the Future”
Co-owner Preity Zinta took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express her excitement, writing: “Huge welcome to @RickyPonting as our new head coach! Let’s chase greatness.”
Ricky Ponting brings a wealth of experience and a strong coaching record to PBKS. Recently, he guided the Steve Smith-led Washington Freedom to a Major League Cricket title, showcasing his ability to turn teams into champions.
As PBKS looks forward to the 2025 IPL season, fans and cricket pundits alike will be eager to see if Ponting can finally break the franchise’s long-standing playoff drought and bring a fresh winning mindset to the team.
