Ricky Ponting, the new head coach of Punjab Kings, stated that he was keen to make the team the best franchise in the history of Punjab Kings before the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
The overall vision of the team is to win the IPL. When I initially joined the camp in Dharamshala, I informed the players that we were going to construct and be the best Punjab Kings squad ever.
This is the path we're on, and such development doesn't occur overnight. You have to build it," Ponting said at a meta-creators event organized at the New PCA stadium in New Chandigarh on Saturday.
The ex-Australian skipper also expressed faith in the Indian youngsters of the Australian team. "Priyansh Arya is a very promising possible opening batsman for us. Depending on how we have our overseas players, he's someone to keep an eye on. Suryansh Shedge too has impressed in the nets. And when I mention energy and enjoyment, Musheer Khan too is a player who has impressed me.". He brings a lot to the group with his infectious attitude. He’s someone I’ve really enjoyed working with,” Ponting added.
Ponting also underlined the significance of overseas experienced players in setting the right example. "I look a lot to the overseas players to set the right example because a lot of the young Indian domestic players look up to them. If the overseas players are not setting the right example, it is very easy for the young Indian boys to do the same. So, I empower the overseas players to lead the way," he clarified.
Punjab Kings, who have not reached the playoffs since their runner-up finish in 2014, will start their IPL 2025 season against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Having finished ninth in the table last season, the team will look to change their fortunes with new captain Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting at the helm.
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