Punjab Kings have made a decisive move ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season by appointing Shreyas Iyer as captain, a signal of intent from a franchise desperate to break their cycle of underperformance. Iyer, an experienced leader and proven match-winner, has openly expressed his ambition to cement himself as the team’s No. 3 batsman— a strategic decision that could shape PBKS’s campaign.
In IPL 2024, Shreyas Iyer played a crucial role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ title-winning run, predominantly occupying the No. 4 spot while occasionally shifting lower in the order to accommodate team needs. However, in IPL 2025, he is clear about where he wants to bat.
“If I would want to mark myself at some position in T20, it would be No. 3,” Shreyas Iyer stated at a press conference. “And that’s what I’m focusing on this season.”
His conviction is shared by PBKS’s new head coach, Ricky Ponting, who was instrumental in bringing Iyer to the franchise. The former Australia captain, known for his tactical acumen, has a history of developing young leaders, having previously worked with Shreyas Iyer at Delhi Capitals between 2019 and 2021, a period in which DC reached the playoffs multiple times, including a runners-up finish in 2020.
CAPTAIN SHREYAS IYER…!!!!
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 18, 2025
– Iyer during the Punjab Kings shoot ahead of IPL 2025. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/AreHETP4z2
A Strategic Shift: Why No. 3 Matters for Shreyas Iyer
Iyer’s preference for the No. 3 spot is not just a personal choice but a tactical decision. The No. 3 position in T20 cricket is pivotal—it requires adaptability, the ability to stabilize an innings after an early wicket, and the firepower to accelerate when needed. With a mix of orthodox stroke play and power hitting, Iyer fits the mold of a modern No. 3.
For Punjab Kings, whose batting lineup has historically struggled with consistency, having a reliable batsman at No. 3 can provide much-needed stability. With power-hitters expected to play around him, Iyer’s presence could be the glue that holds the batting order together.
Can the Iyer-Ponting Partnership Resurrect PBKS?
Ponting’s belief in Iyer as a leader is unwavering. PBKS went all-in on their new captain, investing INR 26.75 crore ($3.18 million approx) to secure his services, making him the second-most expensive player in IPL auction history. Ponting made it clear that Iyer was always his top choice.
“I was desperate to work with Shreyas again. He’s one of the best players I’ve worked with, a great human being, and an IPL-winning captain. We’ve got the best leader we could hope for,” Ponting said.
This captain-coach duo will be expected to rejuvenate a franchise that has underperformed for years. In IPL 2024, PBKS managed just one win in seven home games across Mullanpur and Dharamsala, finishing near the bottom of the table. Ponting acknowledges that turning their home form around is a top priority.
“If you are not winning at home, you are not winning the IPL,” he emphasized. “We’re going to go out and play a dynamic and entertaining brand of cricket. And I know we’ve got the players to do that.”
The Road Ahead for PBKS in IPL 2025
With a new leader, a strategic batting order shift, and a world-class coach at the helm, PBKS is entering IPL 2025 with renewed optimism. The franchise has struggled to find a stable leader in the past, cycling through captains without much success. Iyer’s leadership, combined with Ponting’s experience, could finally bring the stability they desperately need.
PBKS will be keen to capitalize on Iyer’s recent form—having played a crucial role in India’s victorious Champions Trophy campaign—while ensuring they build a well-balanced squad around him. If Shreyas Iyer thrives at No. 3, Punjab Kings might finally have the formula for success.
Key Takeaways
- Shreyas Iyer has declared his intent to bat at No. 3 for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025.
- Punjab Kings acquired Iyer for INR 26.75 crore, making him one of the most expensive players in IPL history.
- Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting share a strong working relationship, having previously led Delhi Capitals to multiple playoff appearances.
- Punjab Kings struggled at home in IPL 2024, and Ponting is focused on reversing that trend.
- The Iyer-Ponting partnership aims to turn Punjab Kings into serious title contenders.
With a well-defined role for their captain and a seasoned coach guiding the squad, PBKS has a real chance to break free from their history of underachievement. The 2025 IPL season could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, and all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer as he looks to lead by example from the crucial No. 3 spot.
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Punjab Kings coach Ricky Ponting hailed Shreyas Iyer as an exceptional player and person, thrilled to reunite with Punjab Kings.#IPL2025 #ShreyasIyer pic.twitter.com/r9pOrohsqd
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) March 18, 2025
Conclusion
As IPL 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer as he looks to define his role at No. 3 and lead Punjab Kings to long-awaited success. With Ricky Ponting’s expertise and a renewed team strategy, PBKS has the opportunity to turn its fortunes around. If Iyer delivers on his promise, this could be the season where Punjab Kings rise from perennial underachievers to genuine title contenders.
