Punjab Kings (PBKS) have finally broken their 11-year playoff drought in the IPL and even secured a top-two finish in the points table. But head coach Ricky Ponting isn’t celebrating just yet. While he acknowledged the team’s progress, he made it clear that the real job is still unfinished.
After a dominant win over Mumbai Indians in Jaipur, which pushed PBKS to the top of the table, Ponting shared his thoughts with the broadcasters.
“I’m obviously very pleased for the group. It’s taken a lot of hard work to reach this point. But as I’ve told the players – we haven’t achieved anything yet,” Ponting said.
“Finishing in the top two was our vision, and we’ve done that. The group is happy, but now we’ve got another week to focus on the real goal – the trophy.”
Praise for Team Spirit and Shreyas Iyer
Ponting highlighted the strong unity in the squad and called it a “talented team on the same page.” A key figure behind PBKS’ turnaround has been captain Shreyas Iyer, whom Ponting had previously worked with during their Delhi Capitals stint, where they reached the final.
Ponting revealed he pushed hard to buy Iyer at the auction – a decision backed by PBKS spending a massive ₹26.75 crore on him.
“I was very keen to work with him again. He’s a top-quality person and leader,” Ponting said.
“Shreyas knows when to encourage the team and when to be tough. That’s what makes him a strong captain.”
Iyer also spoke highly of Ponting, calling their partnership a perfect balance.
“He gives me the freedom to be decisive on the field. I tell him – you handle the outside strategy, let me execute inside the ground,” Iyer said with a smile.
The Inglis Move That Paid Off
Iyer also explained the tactical decision to promote Josh Inglis up the order, even if it meant Iyer had to drop down from his usual No. 3 spot. It turned out to be a match-winning move, as Inglis smashed 73 off 42 balls.
“We knew Inglis loves the new ball and can change the game quickly. That’s why we wanted him to face more deliveries. It worked wonders,” Iyer said.
Team Mentality Behind PBKS’ Success
PBKS ended the league stagewith 9 wins from 14 matches, and according to Iyer, the reason is simple – everyone stepped up when it mattered most.
“From the very first match, our mindset was to fight, no matter the situation. Every time we were down, someone put their hand up and said – I’ll win it for the team.”
“That kind of mentality has been our biggest strength.”
Iyer also credited the support staff and management for creating a positive and winning environment around the team.
