Lights. Strategy. Redemption. Punjab Kings are back—this time, with a fresh leadership duo and a serious title charge in mind. Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer have joined forces, bringing experience, aggression, and a championship mindset to a franchise that has struggled for consistency. Could this finally be Punjab’s year?
For over a decade, PBKS have been on a rollercoaster ride, failing to reach the IPL playoffs for 11 straight seasons. But 2025 feels different. With a revamped squad, a balanced middle order, and a lethal spin attack, Punjab Kings are shaping up as genuine contenders. Let’s break it down.
The Middle-Order Powerhouse
Punjab’s real strength lies in their middle order. Shreyas Iyer at No. 3 is the ideal anchor, while Glenn Maxwell brings the chaos factor—if he finds his form, Punjab’s batting can dismantle any bowling attack. Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Shashank add much-needed balance, while Marco Jansen and Harpreet Brar provide depth with their all-round abilities. And if they need reinforcements? Priyansh Arya and Suryansh Shedge are solid back-ups.
Spin Kings: The Chahal Factor
While Yuzvendra Chahal hasn’t played for India in two years, his IPL pedigree is unmatched. The only bowler in league history with 200 wickets, he holds the record for most dismissals in two separate franchises. Now, he joins PBKS to add firepower to their spin attack. With Harpreet Brar as a left-arm option and Maxwell chipping in with off-spin, Punjab’s spin unit is versatile and dangerous.
The Ponting-Iyer Effect
Great teams thrive under great leadership. PBKS have just that in Ponting and Iyer. Ricky Ponting’s stature as one of the most successful leaders in cricket is unquestionable, while Iyer, the reigning IPL-winning captain, brings fresh energy and tactical acumen. The duo has worked together before, leading Delhi Capitals from 2018 to 2020, and their camaraderie could be the key to unlocking Punjab’s potential.
The Biggest Question: Can PBKS Finally Find Stability?
Punjab Kings have had superstar coaches, big-name captains, and world-class players before. But their Achilles’ heel has always been inconsistency—not finding the right combination, not getting the best out of their squad, and struggling to build a winning culture.
With a new leadership setup, a formidable squad, and a hunger to prove themselves, PBKS have all the pieces of the puzzle. But can they finally put them together? The Ponting-Iyer era begins now. Will it end with a trophy?
