With the highest available purse heading into the IPL 2025 auction, Punjab Kings have an important choice to make between Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer.
The IPL 2025 auction is shaping up to be a spectacle, and the Punjab Kings are at the center of attention. With Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer both released by their respective franchises, a high-stakes battle is brewing. Adding to the intrigue is Ricky Ponting, the Punjab Kings’ newly appointed head coach, who shares a rich history with both players from his time at Delhi Capitals.
As the franchise hunts for its next captain, Ponting knows that the decision isn’t just about filling a leadership void — it’s about defining their future.
The IPL 2025 retention deadline on October 31 brought two major shocks for the fans as Delhi Capitals decided to release Rishabh Pant, who had been associated with the franchise for eight years, and Kolkata Knight Riders also let go of Shreyas Iyer, fresh off leading them to a memorable IPL title earlier this year.
Both players are established stars with immense leadership potential, but they find themselves in the marquee auction pool now, making them two of the most sought-after names this season.
Their release has created a rare scenario: two proven leaders, both Indian batting stalwarts, vying for a spot in the same team. Punjab Kings, a franchise with a history of chopping and changing captains, now has the chance to make a game-changing decision. And it seems Ricky Ponting will play a crucial role.
Ricky Ponting’s influence on both Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer’s careers is undeniable. As Delhi Capitals’ head coach, Ponting groomed Iyer into a composed leader who took the franchise to their maiden IPL final in 2020. Pant, on the other hand, flourished under Ponting’s mentorship, evolving into a fearless batter and an aggressive leader.
Having worked closely with both, Ponting knows their strengths and areas of improvement. He’s gone on record praising Iyer’s calm demeanour and strategic acumen as a captain, while also lauding Pant’s ability to inject energy into the team and take bold decisions under pressure. Ideally, Ponting would want both players in his Punjab Kings setup, but with captaincy aspirations driving both individuals, the team management might need to pick one.
Also Read: 5 Teams that can Break the Bank for Arshdeep Singh in IPL 2025 Auction
Rishabh Pant has openly expressed his desire to lead, despite his mixed results as captain for Delhi Capitals. His fearless approach and knack for delivering in crunch situations make him a compelling choice. However, his inexperience and occasional tactical miscalculations have often drawn criticism.
In contrast, Shreyas Iyer brings a more polished leadership record to the table. He’s already a proven IPL-winning captain, leading KKR to their third title in 2024. Iyer’s composed approach and ability to rally his team in tough situations make him an attractive candidate. Both players know they are in demand, and with their reputations as potential captains, it’s unlikely either would settle for anything less than the leadership role.
As marquee players, Pant and Iyer are expected to attract hefty bids. For Punjab Kings, this poses a significant challenge. The franchise has historically struggled to balance big-ticket acquisitions with building a cohesive squad.
Although they have a purse of INR 110.5 crores available, the highest among all franchises, the financial implications of going all-in for both of them could impact their ability to fill other critical gaps in the team.
Punjab Kings will need to weigh their options carefully, considering not just the immediate benefits of bringing in two marquee players but also the long-term sustainability of the squad. So, they are likely to settle for only one among Pant and Iyer.
Also Read: 5 Teams Likely to Compete for Liam Livingstone at IPL 2025 Auction
When comparing captaincy records, Shreyas Iyer has a clear edge. He’s led his teams with consistent success, showing an ability to adapt to different situations. His calm and collected demeanour under pressure contrasts with Pant’s more impulsive and high-energy style.
While Pant’s leadership may bring an X-factor, his record lacks the stability that Punjab Kings desperately need. Iyer’s experience and proven track record make him a safer bet for a franchise that has often fallen short in crunch situations.
For Ricky Ponting, the decision isn’t just about who is the better captain on paper. It’s about identifying the leader who aligns with Punjab Kings’ vision and values. Pant’s aggression and flamboyance could bring a spark to the team, while Iyer’s proven leadership offers a more measured approach.
Ponting’s familiarity with both players gives Punjab Kings an advantage in the auction, but it also adds pressure to make the right choice. Will they prioritize Pant’s game-changing ability or Iyer’s consistency and tactical nous?
Also Read: 4 teams that will be interested in Ashutosh Sharma in the IPL 2025 auction
So, Punjab Kings find themselves at a crossroads. The franchise has the chance to reset and build a team capable of ending their title drought. The captaincy decision, whether it’s Pant or Iyer, will be central to that mission.
With Ponting at the helm, Punjab Kings look poised to make a bold move. Whatever happens, one thing is certain: the auction floor will witness a bidding war of epic proportions, and Punjab’s choice will shape the franchise’s fortunes for years to come.
