Punjab Kings (PBKS) have achieved a significant milestone by securing a top-two finish in the IPL 2025 season, marking their first playoff appearance in over a decade. This success is largely attributed to the transformative leadership of head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer.
In a recent post-match interview, PBKS batter Shashank Singh highlighted the egalitarian culture fostered by Ponting and Iyer. He shared that from day one, both leaders emphasized treating every team member with equal respect, stating, “They will treat Yuzvendra Chahal, maybe the most senior player, and our bus driver the same.” This approach has been consistently maintained, reflecting a commitment to unity and mutual respect within the team.
Singh further praised Ponting for instilling self-belief and changing the team’s mindset, stating, “He has changed the team culture. He has changed our mindset. He has changed our beliefs.”
Under this renewed culture, PBKS is set to face either Royal Challengers Bengaluru or Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 29 at their home ground in Mullanpur.