IPL 2025: Nick Knight Endorses PBKS's Winning Strategy Under Iyer and Ponting
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Synopsis
Former England cricketer Nick Knight believes that Punjab Kings have found a successful strategy in IPL 2025 with the guidance of captain Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, following impressive performances from Indian players.
Key Takeaways
- Nick Knight praises PBKS's leadership and performance.
- Shreyas Iyer has been pivotal in their victories.
- Indian players have made significant contributions.
- Future contributions expected from overseas stars.
- Next match is against Rajasthan Royals on April 5.
New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) Former England cricketer Nick Knight is convinced that Punjab Kings (PBKS) have discovered a winning strategy in IPL 2025, led by captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting.
Following a robust beginning to their IPL 2025 season, where Iyer's unbeaten 97 runs from 42 balls secured a narrow 11-run triumph over Gujarat Titans, PBKS further solidified their unbeaten record with a decisive eight-wicket win against the Lucknow Super Giants. This victory was driven by impressive performances from Prabhsimran Singh (69) and Iyer's own unbeaten 52.
Knight expressed particular admiration for the way Indian players have risen to the occasion during the team's two significant victories thus far.
“When you examine their lineup, it’s evident that they have won two games convincingly—this latest one (against LSG) was particularly dominant. The overseas players have not heavily influenced these results. Contributions have come from Indian players, and the captain is a stabilizing presence. He exudes calmness and authority. The team's performance mirrors his mentality, alongside coach Ricky Ponting,” Knight remarked on ESPNcricinfo.
What is remarkable is the extent to which PBKS’ achievements have stemmed from their Indian core. While Shreyas Iyer has taken the lead, young talents like Priyansh Arya, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, and Prabhsimran Singh have also made significant contributions. This is promising for the team, especially since their international stars—Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Lockie Ferguson, and Azmatullah Omarzai—have yet to make a notable impact.
“Maxwell, Stoinis, Ferguson, Omarzai—whoever it may be—will undoubtedly play a crucial role, winning a match or two and contributing significantly as the season progresses. So, we can keep that in mind and think, ‘Since we're winning games without them, we’re in a solid position.’ This performance indicates a very confident start for them, considering that some of their key players have yet to make a significant contribution,” Knight added.
Following their victory on Tuesday night against LSG, PBKS aims to sustain their momentum and secure another win when they compete against the Rajasthan Royals on April 5.
