I’m there to support and challenge players, not control them: PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting

Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting outlined the key elements behind building a winning mindset after his team registered a convincing seven-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026. 

Ponting explained and highlighted the importance of building the “right environment” and making the change room an inclusive place. The former Australia captain added that the shortest format demands greater role clarity, and once the players are provided that, the rest takes care of itself.

“For me, it starts with creating the right environment where every player feels valued and on the same page. As a coach, I’m there to support and challenge them, not to control them. Even when they fail, they need to know that’s part of the game,” Ponting said on JioHotsar.

“In T20 cricket, you only need a few players to step up on any given day. So, it’s about building a strong group with clearly defined roles. That was a big part of our auction strategy as well, getting the right people in to shape the culture. When players feel backed, like someone like Prabhsimran or Shashank, they respond with performances, and that’s what ultimately drives results,” the PBKS coach added.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar reflected on Prabhsimran Singh’s impact at the top of the order. The dashing opener smacked an unbeaten 39-ball 80 against Mumbai Indians in Punjab Kings’ dominant seven-wicket win.

“In hindsight, that drop did turn out to be a crucial moment because Prabhsimran Singh made the most of it. Punjab Kings’ top order has been doing the bulk of the scoring, and he brings that aggressive intent which immediately puts bowlers under pressure. What stands out is his ability to attack all around the ground,” Bangar said.

He doesn’t get restricted to one side. Whether it’s through the off side or over the top, he keeps his options open, which allows him to maintain a high strike-rate and keep the pressure on throughout,” he added.

Bangar also shared his thoughts on Mumbai Indians’ playing combination after the team succumbed to a fourth consecutive defeat.

The former India coach expressed surprise on Quinton de Kock’s absence from the XI as Mumbai Indians persisted with Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton at the top of the order. de Kock, who came in as a replacement for the injured Rohit against Punjab Kings, slammed a century to leave an instant impact.

“I was a bit surprised to see Quinton de Kock not being utilised more prominently because he’s a proven match-winner. When he gets going, he has the ability to win games on his own, and his record in T20 cricket reflects that.

“Mumbai Indians need that kind of impact at the top. It might mean making tough calls, even looking beyond Ryan Rickelton, to get the right balance in the XI. They also need to ensure their overseas combination complements the Indian core, and someone like Will Jacks, when he comes in, could add that extra energy and intent to the line-up,” Bangar concluded.