We’ve To Start All Over Again: PBKS Head Coach Ricky Ponting Stresses On Fresh Mindset Ahead Of Season Opener Against GT

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Punjab Kings start their IPL 2026 campaign against Gujarat Titans on March 31. The match is at the New International Stadium, New Chandigarh. Head coach Ricky Ponting said the squad looks stronger. He stressed a fresh start, despite last season’s top-of-the-table finish.

Ponting said past success offers no guarantees this year. “It's nice to reflect on what was a great season for the franchise, but that doesn't mean anything going into a new year. It's nil-nil now for everybody. We've got to start that all over again,” he said.

Ponting underlined improved depth across the group. “We've got the players that we want in certain roles, but we've also got a back-up player for most of those players right the way down to our 25th player. I just think overall, we should be stronger,” he said.

Younger players’ growth and overseas strength key for PBKS

The coach pointed to natural growth in several players. He said performances could rise across the next two months. He added, “there's no reason why our performances can't be better than last year.” He also rated this year’s overseas signings stronger than last season’s group.

The game is set on a surface likely to help batters. Ponting said selection will depend on the pitch. He noted rain had covered the square. He said they had not seen the playing surface for a couple of days.

Ponting weighs combinations, impact roles for opener

Ponting said the 25-man group has a good mix. “We have got 25 players to pick from, with a nice balance of overseas players and Indian talent. First and foremost, we have to understand the conditions before we pick the team,” he said.

Ponting hoped to inspect the pitch before training ended. “So hopefully before the end of the session tonight, we can have a really good look at the wicket that we're going to use tomorrow, and then we can start thinking about different combinations and impact players,” he said.

The coach wants a sharp start at home. “We need to start well tomorrow, we need to play well at our home ground,” he said. He added that younger players are more experienced now and said he was eager for the season to begin.