Punjab Kings (PBKS) has buckled up for the all-important final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the IPL 2025 title shot. PBKS bounced back from the setback against RCB in Qualifier 1 and then defeated Mumbai Indians to confirm a place in the final.

The side led by Shreyas Iyer displayed one of the most dominating performances for the Punjab-based side in the history of the tournament. Now, before the final lap of the race, Iyer showed gratitude to the coach, Ricky Ponting, for their fearless approach as a unit.

During the pre-conference of the RCB vs. PBKS IPL 2025 finale, the skipper said that because of Ponting's extremely good man-management skills, Punjab Kings was able to reach this height. No matter what the situation is, he manages to compose himself and never let down the boys. 

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"Ricky Ponting is an amazing coach who manages the players precisely. One 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 most," Iyer said in the press conference.

Only a step away from creating history 

"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 give us an immense boost. After the game, we are always excited to listen to him, and it’s simply phenomenal to work with him."

The interesting fact is that it is the same combination of coach and captain (Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer) that helped Delhi Capitals to the IPL final for the first time back in 2019. Now they are together with PBKS and only a step away from lifting the IPL trophy.