‘Really exciting’: Cricket fans in frenzy after news about Ricky Ponting comes to light

Aussie cricket icon Ricky Ponting has taken on one of the biggest challenges in the sport having accepted the Punjab Kings head coach role in the Indian Premier League. Ponting has been taking care of the Delhi Capitals for the last seven years having coached David Warner and Jake Fraser-McGurk in the 2024 campaign.

However, Ponting has made the huge call to join struggling rivals the Punjab Kings for the 2025 season. And he has accepted one of toughest coaching roles in the tournament. The Kings finished second last this year with just 10 points points in 10 games.

The Kings have now had three coaches in four seasons with the franchise consistently underperforming in the domestic competition. Harshal Patel won the purple cap for the tournament and was the Kings’ standout player, but it wasn’t enough for the franchise to make the finals. England star Sam Curran is also set be retained as they build a new squad.

Despite the signings of Indian superstar Shikhar Dhawan, Aussie Nathan Ellis and England bowler Chris Woakes, the Kings have struggled and are seeking a change. Dhawan also announced his retirement, leaving a vacant position for a new captain.

Ponting appears set to make the final call on the coaching staff as they look to turn around the fortunes of the struggling franchise. “We are delighted to have Ricky on to guide and build our team for the next 4 seasons,” CEO Satish Menon said after Ponting signed.

“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. “

Ponting was thrilled for a new challenge having taken care of the Capitals for seven years. “I am grateful to Punjab Kings for presenting me with the opportunity to be the new Head Coach,” he said.

“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.” Ponting suggested the Kings were looking to ‘put a new team together’ for the new campaign.

Cricket fans react to Ricky Ponting announcement

Punjab Kings were thrilled to have signed the experienced IPL coach. Ponting has also worked with the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash. Signing one of the greatest white-ball batters of all-time has also lifted the spirits of the Kings faithful.

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There are suggestions Ponting could seek to add more Aussie talent to the roster in the coming season. Capitals fans were sad to see the end of Ponting’s reign, despite having not won the tournament during his time as head coach.

Ponting took the Capitals to the finals in three successive seasons from 2019 to 2021. The Kings qualified for its first IPL final in 2020, but fell short. Ponting coached the Washington Freedom’s in the inaugural US T20 competition this year. Washington won the title.