Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) qualification for the IPL 2025 playoffs has not just been about performance on the field but also about transformation off it. The team’s resurgence has been largely credited to head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, who have helped foster a positive and respectful team culture.
Respect for All: From Chahal to the Bus Driver
In a heartfelt statement during a press conference, PBKS batter Shashank Singh shared how Ponting and Iyer set the tone from Day 1, vowing to treat everyone — whether it’s a senior player like Yuzvendra Chahal or the team bus driver — with equal respect.
“Ricky Ponting and Shreyas both said they would treat Chahal and our bus driver the same. And they’ve truly lived that message,” said Shashank.
He added that the culture of mutual respect and care has deeply impacted the team:
“They’ve built something real. They changed our beliefs, our mindset, and made sure we care for each other. That’s not easy, and all credit goes to them.”
Shreyas Iyer: A Leader Who Inspires All
Shreyas Iyer has now become the first IPL captain to lead three different franchises to the playoffs — Delhi Capitals (2020), Kolkata Knight Riders (2024 champions), and now Punjab Kings (2025).
For Shashank Singh, who has had a breakout season with 284 runs at a strike rate of 149.47, playing under Shreyas has been a personal high:
“Shreyas is a dear friend, but playing under him is the best thing that’s happened to me. He gives everyone — players, staff, media, even logistics — the freedom to be themselves.”
According to him, Shreyas and Ponting made it clear during their very first team meeting that culture would come before results — and the results would follow.
Punjab Kings Eyeing IPL Glory in 2025
PBKS secured their playoff spot by defeating Mumbai Indians in Jaipur and are set to play Qualifier 1 on May 29 in Mullanpur. They’ll face either Royal Challengers Bengaluru or Gujarat Titans, depending on the outcome of the remaining group stage matches.
Yuzvendra Chahal, who missed the last two matches due to a finger injury, is expected to be fit for the crucial qualifier clash.
For the first time in over a decade, PBKS are not just playing for the trophy — they’re doing it with a culture and spirit that reflects unity and leadership from the very top.
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