'Ricky Ponting treats every player equally' - Shreyas Iyer explains traits that make PBKS head coach special

As Punjab Kings (PBKS) get set to play their first Indian Premier League (IPL) final since 2014, captain Shreyas Iyer mentioned some of the methods adopted by head coach Ricky Ponting that has helped them become a formidable force.

Shreyas played a brilliant knock of 87 not out off 41 balls in Qualifier 2 against Mumbai Indians (MI), helping PBKS chase down a 204-run target in 19 overs with five wickets to spare. The right-handed batter said that Ponting has treated each player equally and motivated the team with his morale-boosting speeches before and after games.

"Ricky Ponting is an amazing coach who manages the players precisely. One that that stands out with him is that he treats every player equally. That’s a real big boost to every individual, whether he is a junior or senior moist," Iyer said in the press interaction ahead of PBKS' clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, June 3.

"I have never seen his emotions going up and down regardless of the result. That’s the sign of a great coach. And the assertive thoughts that he provides with his speeches before and after the game, that gives us immense boost. After the game, we are always excited to listen to him and it’s simply phenomenal to work with him," he added.

Interestingly, the Ponting-Shreyas duo also helped Delhi Capitals reach the IPL final for the first time back in 2019. Now, they are on the cusp of creating history with PBKS. They would be high on confidence after their comprehensive win against five-time champions Mumbai in Qualifier 2.

Shreyas has led the team from the front. He has been the epitome of consistency, amassing 603 runs from 16 innings at an average of 54.82 and a strike rate of 175.81. In the summit clash, the 30-year-old would want to continue from where he left off against MI.