IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals Begin New Chapter After Ricky Ponting’s Departure to Punjab Kings

The Delhi Capitals are gearing up for a fresh start with a new coaching setup as Ricky Ponting leaves to join Punjab Kings as their mentor. Ponting, who spent seven years with DC, brought consistency to the team but couldn’t deliver the ultimate IPL title.

Ponting’s departure signals a major shift for the franchise, which also saw former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly exit. Ganguly, brought in to assist DC in securing their maiden IPL trophy, played a crucial role during his tenure, including convincing Ponting to approve Shikhar Dhawan’s transfer from Sunrisers Hyderabad. Dhawan’s move proved a masterstroke, with the opener scoring over 500 runs in each of his three seasons and leading DC to their first IPL final in 2020.

Link to the interview:

The Delhi Capital's Ponting era: Wasn't in favour of signing Shikhar, had a great team but couldn't deliver title. A lot more about IPL’s underachieving team as Ponting moves to Punjab.#CricketWithKaif #IPL pic.twitter.com/iIMXKJBOlX

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) November 18, 2024

Former DC assistant coach Mohammad Kaif, speaking during an Instagram Live, suggested Ponting’s tenure had its flaws. He cited strategic missteps, including resistance to key decisions, as factors that may have led to the franchise moving in a new direction. He said:

I think Ponting would himself admit he could have done better because the team we made, me, Ganguly…you won’t believe there were times we could think whom should we drop. There was no place for Ajinkya Rahane, Ashwin, Ishant Sharma, even Hetmyer.

Delhi also released David Warner after the 2024 season as part of their rebuilding efforts. As the Capitals chart a new course, they aim to leave behind past shortcomings and finally claim their first IPL title.