How Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting Transformed PBKS Culture
Date: May 27, 2025
By HT Sports Desk (Adapted for blog)
The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have reached the IPL playoffs for the first time since 2011, and the driving force behind this success is the dynamic duo of captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting. Their leadership has transformed the team’s dressing room culture, fostering unity and respect.
A Culture of Equality
PBKS batter Shashank Singh credited the team’s inclusive environment: "We treat Yuzvendra Chahal and the team bus driver with the same respect." This statement underscores a key value promoted by the leadership—every individual, regardless of role, is equally important.
Ponting’s Clear Vision
Ricky Ponting emphasized the importance of building a solid Indian core. He targeted players like Shreyas Iyer, Arshdeep Singh, and Chahal during the mega auction, prioritizing leadership, consistency, and experience to stabilize the squad.
"There were three players that I wanted to bring in... I also wanted to bring in a captain who I have worked with before and who has had a lot of success. So, we went after Shreyas Iyer."
Shreyas Iyer’s Tactical Brilliance
Iyer’s leadership has been marked by bold, in-game decisions. One such instance came during a match against Gujarat Titans, when he introduced Vijaykumar Vyshak as an impact substitute, a game-changing move that swung momentum PBKS's way.
Iyer has also shone with the bat—scoring 360 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate above 180—proving that he leads from the front.
Empowering the Team
The collaborative relationship between Iyer and Ponting has given players a sense of autonomy and trust. Iyer praised Ponting's approach, saying:
"Ricky gives you freedom regardless of your stature—whether you’re a newcomer or a senior player."
What’s Next?
Punjab Kings are set to face either Royal Challengers Bengaluru or Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 29 at their home ground in Mullanpur. With a fresh culture and renewed spirit, the franchise is well-positioned to make a strong playoff run.
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