In a candid revelation, former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has opened up about his departure from the Delhi Capitals (DC), a franchise he had been associated with for seven years. Ponting, who recently took over as the head coach of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, cited availability issues as the primary reason for his split with the Delhi-based team.
SOURCE : ZEE
Ponting’s departure from the Delhi Capitals was officially announced in July 2024, marking the end of a significant chapter in his coaching career. During his tenure, Ponting played a pivotal role in transforming the team, leading them to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2019 to 2021, including their maiden final in 2020.
Source:- bbc news
ESPNCricinfo, Ponting explained the circumstances that led to his exit. “I felt like we created a really good family environment there. As I said, I understand what they want; they said to me that my availability was becoming an issue. And they wanted to pretty much have a full-time head coach. I could not commit to that, so I was disappointed that it ended, but I understand the direction they wanted to head going forward,” Ponting shared
Ponting’s commitments outside the IPL, including his role with the Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket (MLC), where he led the team to a title-winning campaign, contributed to his limited availability. This, coupled with the demands of the IPL, made it challenging for him to continue in a full-time capacity with the Delhi Capitals
Ponting’s impact on the Delhi Capitals was profound. Under his guidance, the team evolved from perennial underperformers to serious title contenders. His strategic acumen and ability to foster a cohesive team environment were instrumental in the Capitals’ resurgence. The franchise’s social media posts following his departure reflected the disappointment of fans and players alike, underscoring the strong bond Ponting had built with the team.
Following his departure from Delhi Capitals, Ponting was quickly snapped up by the Punjab Kings, who have been struggling to make a mark in the IPL. The team finished ninth in the 2024 season and has not qualified for the playoffs since 2014. Ponting’s appointment as head coach is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the team and end their playoff drought.
Ponting’s initial tasks with PBKS include identifying players for retention and appointing a new captain following Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement. His extensive experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset for the Punjab Kings as they aim to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
Taking over as the head coach of Punjab Kings presents a new set of challenges for Ponting. The team has undergone significant changes in recent years, with Ponting being the third head coach in four seasons. However, his ability to create a winning culture and his strategic insights are expected to bring stability and success to the franchise.
Ponting acknowledged the pressure that comes with coaching but welcomed it. “That is the thing that makes coaching inviting to me. I like having that pressure. It is as close to getting back to playing as you can possibly get. From the moment I finished playing, when that competition stops in your life, it is really hard to replace that again,” he said.
Ricky Ponting’s departure from the Delhi Capitals marks the end of an era, but his new role with the Punjab Kings opens an exciting chapter in his coaching career. As he prepares to lead PBKS in the IPL 2025 season, fans and cricket pundits will be watching closely to see how he transforms the team. Ponting’s journey is a testament to his enduring passion for the game and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
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