Shreyas Iyer Praises Ricky Ponting's Coaching Ahead of IPL 2025 Final
Shreyas Iyer Highlights Ricky Ponting's Coaching Style
Punjab Kings' captain, Shreyas Iyer, emphasized the remarkable coaching style of Ricky Ponting, noting his ability to treat all players "equally." Iyer believes that Ponting's emotional stability, regardless of match outcomes, exemplifies what makes a coach truly great, especially as they prepare for the IPL 2025 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Tuesday.
Having previously collaborated at Delhi Capitals, where they led the team to its first IPL final in 2020 against Mumbai Indians, Iyer and Ponting have reunited at Punjab Kings. Their partnership has transformed Punjab into a formidable contender.
Under their leadership, Punjab has reached the IPL final for the first time in over a decade. Shreyas, who is on the brink of becoming the first captain to secure titles with two different franchises, shared insights into Ponting's influence within the team.
"Ricky Ponting is exceptional in player management. He is a fantastic coach who knows how to handle players effectively. One of his standout qualities is treating everyone equally, which significantly boosts morale, whether the player is a rookie or a veteran," Shreyas remarked during the pre-match press conference.
"Knowing that the coach treats everyone fairly fosters a positive environment, allowing players to express their abilities freely. I've observed that his emotions remain steady, regardless of the results, which is a hallmark of a great coach," he added.
Shreyas has received acclaim for his outstanding leadership skills. The 30-year-old believes that effective captaincy is crucial for maximizing his team's performance.
"As a captain, my role is to bring out the best in my players. We started this tournament strong with two victories, which helped us gain momentum. Each player has stepped up, showcasing their fearless nature, especially the younger members of our squad. From the very first ball, they have been assertive, and that continues to this day," he explained.
"It's not just about stepping up in every match; it's about consistently performing to win. This consistency has been key to our successful season. Now, as we approach the final, I am filled with excitement and positivity," he concluded.