Shreyas Iyer Has Nothing But Admiration for Ricky Ponting Following Punjab Kings’ Successful 2025 IPL Campaign

While the duo might have fallen short on both occasions, they have been lauded for having turned around teams that have otherwise struggled in the IPL. Shreyas Iyer recently opened up about the great bond that he shares with the ex-Australian captain on ‘The Quest Talk’ podcast on YouTube. Iyer noted that Ponting has a unique ability to make every player feel comfortable and helps them work together as a unit.

Furthermore, he exclaimed that Ponting instilled a sense of belonging in all the players, once he joined PBKS. Praising the 50-year-old’s honesty and openness, Iyer shared that the feedback that he and the other players received from Ponting helped them perform at their highest level, while also making the dressing room a comfortable space where players could interact without hesitation.

This year, when Ricky [Ponting] came in as the coach, he made everyone comfortable. He instilled the sense that every player belonged to this franchise. He was open and honest about whatever he said.

Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer also became the first captain in the IPL’s 18-year history to lead three different franchises to the playoffs, and the final. Despite this remarkable display of leadership, the 30-year-old was controversially left out of India’s squad for the ongoing 2025 Asia Cup.

Shreyas Iyer Breaks Silence on KKR Exit, Hints at Lack of Communication After 2024 IPL Title

Shreyas Iyer’s departure from Kolkata Knight Riders, after the end of a successful 2024 IPL season where he even led the franchise to its third IPL title, left fans confused. The 30-year-old was released by KKR, and subsequently picked by Punjab Kings for INR 26.75 crores at the 2025 IPL auction.

While it was initially believed that disagreements over his retention terms led Shreyas Iyer’s exit, the 30-year-old shared new details about his exit. In an interview with GQ, he revealed that there was a notable lack of clear communication from the KKR management following the 2024 IPL season. Iyer also hinted that a possible lack of respect from the team ultimately motivated his decision to leave the franchise.

He explained that while he was involved in the early preparations, he felt a growing disconnect with the three-time IPL-winning franchise. Shreyas Iyer also talked about the contrast in the KKR and PBKS management, highlighting that the latter were eager to acquire him. He also added that he was respected as a player and as a captain at Punjab, which allowed him to give out his best for the side.

I offer a lot as a captain and player. If I get respect, anything can be accomplished. This is what happened in Punjab. They gave me all the support I needed, whether it was the coaches, management or players.

Nonetheless, Shreyas Iyer, after being kept out of the Team India fold for a while now, will return to action in the upcoming multi-day red-ball series against Australia ‘A’. He has been appointed captain of the India ‘A’ side that will play two four-day matches against the visitors in Lucknow.