IPL 2025: Ricky Ponting becomes Punjab Kings’ head coach

Not even an entire season has passed, and Ricky Ponting is back in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as head coach of yet another franchise. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have roped in the Australian, who formerly coached the Delhi Capitals (DC) for seven years and the Mumbai Indians (MI) for four years in the IPL. 

Ponting was earlier released from his role as Capitals’ head coach in July this year. Right after that, the Australian won the Major League Cricket (MLC) title with the Washington Freedom, with compatriot Steve Smith as captain of the side.

Apart from his commitments in the IPL and MLC, Ponting’s BBL side, Hobart Hurricanes, have kept him on their payroll as the team’s strategic head since Big Bash League (BBL) 2021. 

Earlier today, Kings posted a cryptic message on X (formerly Twitter), fueling rumours that the former Australian captain was in their sights and that something interesting might happen. 

"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 Satish Menon, Kings CEO, about the appointment. 

Ponting added, "I am grateful to Punjab Kings for presenting me with the opportunity to be the new Head Coach. I am excited to take up the new challenge. I had great conversations with the owners and the management about the way forward and was truly elated to see the alignment of our visions for the team. We all want to repay the fans who have stayed with the franchise over the years and we promise that they will see a much different Punjab Kings going forward."

So far, Punjab Kings have not won the IPL and Ponting, who replaced Trevor Bayliss as in-charge of the side, already has his task cut out.

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