IPL 2025: Iyer Highlights Ponting's Unique Confidence Boost

Synopsis

Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer shares his excitement about working with Ricky Ponting again, emphasizing the confidence he instills in players. Iyer outlines the team's goal of winning the trophy while praising the blend of youth and experience within the squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Key Takeaways

Shreyas Iyer feels confident with Ricky Ponting's support.
The team's focus is on winning the trophy this season.
Ponting praises Iyer as an exceptional captain.
The squad has a strong mix of youth and experience.
The team has a fearless approach led by Iyer and Ponting.

Chandigarh, March 18 (NationPress) Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer expressed his joy at reuniting with head coach Ricky Ponting, stating that his presence instills significant confidence in the players.

“He supports everyone. During my first experience working with him, he made me feel like a remarkable player capable of excelling in this format. The level of confidence he imparts is unparalleled,” said Iyer during a press conference.

Iyer further discussed the team's objectives for the season, noting, “Our aim is to secure the trophy; that is our current mindset. It's a gradual process; you don’t just wake up and achieve it. However, the way we're practicing and the camaraderie we’re sharing is going exceptionally well.”

Ponting praised Iyer, expressing his delight at having him as the captain, and looked forward to their collaboration.

“He is an incredible person and an IPL-winning captain. We couldn't have asked for more. He joined the camp just a couple of days ago, and he is already starting to leave his mark as a captain and leader. This will develop further as we approach our first game. I couldn't be more pleased,” Ponting elaborated.

While discussing the team's balanced composition, the two-time World Cup-winning captain remarked, “We have an excellent blend of youth and experience, featuring top-quality Indian and overseas players.”

“I am thrilled with how the squad has come together. Our first training session last night went very well, and the boys have trained exceptionally,” he added, expressing satisfaction with the team's configuration.

Meanwhile, commenting on the team's structure and preparations for the new season, CEO Satish Menon stated, “The team is fearless. Our young players are unafraid. With a great coach in Ponting and an IPL-winning captain in Iyer, it doesn't get better than this. We have also focused on enhancing our brand in Punjab, hence we have many players from the state in our squad.”

The Punjab Kings will face the Gujarat Titans in their opening match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 25. After that, the team will return to their home ground, the new PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, for two home games against the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.