Ricky Ponting Named Head Coach of Punjab Kings After Leaving Delhi Capitals

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed head coach of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings, following his departure from Delhi Capitals. The 49-year-old, regarded as one of cricket’s greatest batters, ended his seven-year tenure at Delhi after a disappointing sixth-place finish in the 2024 IPL.

Ponting, who had been linked to replacing Matthew Mott as England’s white-ball coach, ruled himself out due to the extensive time commitments required for international coaching. He currently also serves as head coach of Major League Cricket’s Washington Freedom, leading them to victory in his debut season.

Punjab Kings, who finished ninth in the 2024 IPL under former England coach Trevor Bayliss, made no reference to Bayliss’ future in their announcement. Punjab’s chief executive, Satish Menon, expressed excitement over Ponting’s appointment, citing his “insights from international coaching stints” as crucial for team building ahead of the mega auction in 2025.

Ponting’s role at Punjab will focus on rebuilding the squad over the next four seasons, with key players like England’s Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Chris Woakes, and Jonny Bairstow part of the current roster.