In a candid revelation, Punjab Kings (PBKS) head coach Ricky Ponting has shared the inside story behind the franchise’s record-breaking ₹26.75 crore bid for Shreyas Iyer during the IPL 2025 auction. The veteran Australian coach emphasized Iyer’s leadership acumen, self-confidence, and their shared history as key reasons for targeting him “at any cost.”
A ₹26.75 crore gamble – With purpose
Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab Kings made headlines when they shelled out a staggering sum for Iyer, making him the most expensive buy of the season. According to Ponting, the move wasn’t just about Iyer’s batting prowess, but also about securing a reliable and proven leader who could guide the team with clarity and conviction.
“He’s a confident player who prepares well,” said Ponting in an interview with the Indian Express . “You watched him walk out to bat the other day; he walked out with a certain amount of swagger because he’s confident. He knows if he does his little things right, then he can’t fail.”
Strong captain-coach bond a key factor
Ponting also highlighted the importance of chemistry between captain and coach, drawing parallels with other team sports and stressing that cricket leadership requires a 🐽collabora෴tive dynamic.
“I don’t think a cricket team coach has the same impact as a football manager. I prefer sharing ideas with the captain and senior players,” Ponting noted. “That’s why we wanted Shreyas. I’ve worked with him in Delhi and we’ve always respected each other’s roles. He’s one of the best players and people I’ve come across.”
Also READ: Preiꦜty Zinta’s ‘Jadoo Ki Jhappi’ to Shreyas Iyer wins hearts after Punjab Kings’ first defeat in IPL 2025
The coach-captain duo first came together at Delhi Capitals (DC), where they help🧜ed the team reach the IPL 2020 final, a landmark campaign in the franchise’s hiꩲstory. Their past success is now serving as the blueprint for Punjab Kings’ title ambitions.
Ponting’s familiarity with Iyer’s style of leadership and personality played a big role in the franchise’s aggressive auction strategy. “Having worked with Shreyas before, I know exactly what he brings—calmness, confidence, and consistency,” Ponting added.
The bold move appears t🌸o be paying off. Iyer 🐟has already made a solid start to IPL 2025, scoring two half-centuries in just three matches, and anchoring the batting unit with poise. His presence has brought a sense of purpose to the PBKS dressing room as they chase their elusive maiden IPL title.
