Ricky Ponting credits IPL for India’s T20 success

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has emphasised the significant role the Indian Premier League (IPL) has played in shaping India’s exceptional T20 strength. As the head coach of Punjab Kings, Ponting highlighted how the intensity and pressure of IPL matches effectively prepare Indian players for the challenges of international cricket.

India recently solidified their dominance in the format by defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the T20 World Cup 2026 final in Ahmedabad, becoming the first team to defend their title successfully. During an appearance on The ICC Review, Ponting praised India’s white-ball success in recent years, underlining the remarkable depth and strength of the current squad.

“It’s tough to counter that point. If you examine not just the T20I team but their overall white-ball performance in ICC events over the past five or six years, it’s truly impressive,” Ponting said.

“This is an exceptionally strong Indian white-ball team, not just in T20s. Back-to-back World Cups, credit to them,” he continued.

Ponting also pointed out that the frequent exposure to high-pressure situations in the IPL provides invaluable experience for Indian players. He further explained that the competitive nature and scale of the IPL closely mirror the intensity of international cricket, making it an ideal platform for preparation.

“The one aspect that’s often overlooked with this team is the vast experience and the amount of cricket many of these players have been involved in, whether at the international level or in the IPL,” he added.

“The IPL matches are just as intense as international games, so this Indian team entered the tournament well-prepared, with excellent balance and a strong squad,” he concluded.