Ricky Ponting Wants To Continue Coaching In IPL

In July 2024, the Delhi Capitals ended their seven-year association with Ricky Ponting, who had been at the helm since 2018. Parth Jindal, a co-owner of the franchise, confirmed that the team is now looking to appoint an Indian coach. The new coach would focus on scouting and developing local talent—an area where Ponting's role had been limited. Ponting himself acknowledged that the franchise wanted to move in a different direction, and he was not the ideal fit for their evolving needs. Despite this departure, Ponting remains enthusiastic about returning to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025. With several franchises on the lookout for a new coach, Ponting could be a strong candidate to fit their systems. Prior to his tenure with the Delhi Capitals, Ponting was the head coach of the Mumbai Indians. His tenure with Mumbai ended when Mahela Jayawardene took over the role.

Ponting’s extensive experience in the IPL, combined with his successful coaching track record, positions him as a valuable asset for any team seeking a fresh perspective and strong leadership. As franchises evaluate their coaching needs for the upcoming seasons, Ponting's return could offer a strategic advantage and bring renewed vigor to the IPL coaching landscape.

“I'd love to coach again in the IPL. I've had a great time every year that I've been involved, whether that was in the early days as a player or the couple of years I had at Mumbai as head coach there. And then I've had seven seasons at Delhi, which unfortunately didn't really work out. I think me going there was all about trying to bring some silverware to the team and that didn't happen,” former Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting said in the latest episode of the ICC Review.

“They made it pretty clear that they wanted to head in a different direction with someone that could give them a bit more time and a bit more availability through the off-season, really more than anything to be able to spend a bit more time in India with a lot of the local players. I just couldn't do that with the other stuff that I've got going on. I think what you'll find is that they'll probably end up with an Indian-based head coach,” he added.

Ricky Ponting expressed his gratitude to the Delhi Capitals for the opportunity to work with the franchise and its many talented players over the years. He appreciated the chance to be part of the team’s journey and thanked the organization for the experience. Ponting extended his best wishes to the Delhi Capitals for their future endeavors, acknowledging the strong foundation they have built.

Looking ahead, Ponting made it clear that he remains open to returning to the IPL in a coaching capacity. He is enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing to another franchise in the future, bringing his extensive experience and insights gained from his tenure with the Delhi Capitals and the Mumbai Indians. Ponting’s commitment to the league and his readiness to take on new challenges reflect his ongoing passion for cricket and coaching. As teams begin to assess their coaching needs, Ponting’s willingness to rejoin the IPL could provide them with a seasoned leader eager to make a significant impact.

“I wish them all the very best but as I said there could be a few opportunities for me popping up in the next couple of months and I'd love to be back coaching in the IPL again next season,” Ponting said.