IPL 2025 : Shreyas Iyer And? Ricky Ponting Reveals Three 'Non-Negotiable' Stars in Punjab Kings' Plan

IPL 2025 : Punjab Kings' head coach Ricky Ponting has promised a major transformation in the franchise ahead of the 2025 IPL season.

Speaking on The Howie Games podcast, the former Australian World Cup-winning captain shared insights into his approach, squad-building philosophy, and vision for success in the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Ponting emphasized that Punjab Kings will undergo a complete overhaul, from their playing style to their leadership structure.

"It's going to be really different this year with the way that we are perceived, the way we present ourselves, the way that we train, the way that we play, and the way that we are led. Everything is going to be different from the previous years," Ponting stated.

Key Indian Core: Iyer, Chahal & Arshdeep Non-Negotiable

Punjab Kings have assembled a formidable squad, with Shreyas Iyer set to lead the team. The franchise also secured the services of experienced leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and retained young pacer Arshdeep Singh.

Ponting revealed that acquiring these three players was crucial to his strategy for the team's rebuild.

"There were three players that I wanted to bring in. One who has been at Punjab Kings for three or four years-Arshdeep Singh. I also wanted to bring in a captain who I have worked with before and who has had a lot of success. So, we went after Shreyas Iyer. I also wanted to bring in Yuzi. So the Indian guys that we have are perfect," he explained.

With these key Indian players in place, Ponting and the Punjab Kings management made additional tweaks during the auction to strengthen the squad.

"And then, we had to make a few tweaks as the auction went on to make sure we ended up with a really good squad. I am trying to make things different and rebuild and have the right people around me. But these three were non-negotiables," he added.

Indian Players Take Priority Over Overseas Stars

Ponting further elaborated on his belief that a strong Indian core is essential for success in the IPL. While international stars generate excitement, he made it clear that securing top Indian talent was his primary focus.

"It's not so much about the overseas guys. The overseas guys create a lot of hype, and they go for a lot of money or whatever. But as far as I am concerned, I needed to bring the right Indian players back into the tent," Ponting stated.

The franchise's decision to retain uncapped Indian players like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh reflects their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.

Ponting on His Massive Fan Following in India

During the conversation, Ponting also spoke about his enduring popularity in India and his interactions with fans. He acknowledged the immense passion for cricket in the country and how his association with Indian cricket-both as a player and commentator-has strengthened his connection with fans.

"When you're in India, on most flights or when you check into a hotel, there are so many people around trying to have a picture or they wish to grab your bag to drop into your room. But it's part and parcel of an Australian cricketer's life when you visit India," he shared.

Reflecting on why Indian fans have embraced him, Ponting credited his time in commentary and coaching, which has allowed people to see a different side of him.

"You appreciate it more when you understand how much it means to them. There are people of all different ages. I think doing commentary gigs in India has allowed a lot of that, as I have spent a lot of time in the country now. I have also been able to work with a lot of players who have talked reasonably highly about me in the media. I think people have learned a lot more about me since my playing days," he added.

With Ponting at the helm and a revamped squad featuring a strong Indian core, Punjab Kings will be aiming to make a significant impact in IPL 2025. Fans will be eager to see if this fresh approach can finally turn the franchise into serious title contenders.