
As of February 2025, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for another electrifying season, and fans are eagerly searching for the best IPL betting offers. One team that has been making significant strides is the Punjab Kings. With a new captain and a revamped squad under the guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, Punjab Kings are poised to make a substantial impact in IPL 2025.
Team History
The Punjab Kings, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, have been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008. Despite their rich history and talented squads over the years, they have yet to win an IPL title. Their best finish was as runners-up in 2014 when they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final.
In recent seasons, Punjab has struggled with consistency. In 2024, they finished ninth with five wins out of fourteen matches4. The previous year (2023) saw them finish eighth with six wins. However, there’s optimism for improvement with their latest team setup.
Current Squad and Key Players
For IPL 2025, Punjab Kings have assembled a formidable squad led by new captain Shreyas Iyer. Iyer was acquired for an impressive Rs 26.75 crore during the mega auction. He brings valuable leadership experience after captaining Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in IPL 2024.
Other key players include:
- Arshdeep Singh is a young left-arm seamer who has become crucial for his death bowling skills.
- Yuzvendra Chahal is one of India’s top spinners and is known for his match-winning abilities.
- Glenn Maxwell is an Australian all-rounder who adds depth both with bat and ball.
- Marcus Stoinis is another versatile player from Australia who provides batting power and medium-paced options.
The squad also retains uncapped talents like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh.
Coaching Staff
Ricky Ponting took over as head coach ahead of IPL 2025. Ponting is renowned for his tactical acumen and leadership qualities from his playing days as captain of Australia’s national cricket team. His vision includes building a strong core around Indian talent while leveraging international stars effectively.
Ponting emphasised that Shreyas Iyer was one of three non-negotiables he wanted on board, alongside Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal1. This strategic approach reflects his focus on balancing youth with experienced leaders.
Performance Expectations
With such a well-rounded squad under Ponting’s guidance, expectations are high that Punjab can improve significantly from their recent performances:
Season | Position | Wins/Losses |
2024 | Ninth | W:5 L:9 |
2023 | Eighth | W:6 L:8 |
Their goal will be to secure a playoff spot at a minimum by capitalising on their star-studded lineup.
Fan Involvement
Punjab Kings enjoy significant fan support across India due partly to their presence in major cities like Mohali (Chandigarh), where they host home games at PCA Stadium (Mohali Cricket Stadium). The appointment of Ricky Ponting as coach also boosts fan interest, given his popularity among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Ponting noted how much he appreciates being recognised by fans during visits to India—often stopped for photos or autographs—a testament to cricket’s massive following there.
Future Prospects
The combination of Shreyas Iyer’s leadership skills, along with Ricky Ponting’s coaching expertise, could prove pivotal. Young players like Arshdeep Singh will continue developing under experienced mentors. Strategic acquisitions such as Glenn Maxwell provide the versatility needed across different game scenarios.
Team Performance Highlights
- Highest successful T20 chase record was set against KKR (262 runs).
- The best finish includes runners-up in IPL 2014.
- KL Rahul is the all-time leading run-scorer before moving teams.
- Chris Gayle – Overwhelmingly influential batsman during early years.
Overall, while past performances may not reflect it fully yet, this season presents an opportunity for significant growth both on-field performance-wise and off-field through increased fan participation driven by fresh faces leading operations at PBKS headquarters now moving forward into what promises to be quite an eventful campaign indeed!