Coach Ricky Ponting was full of praise for Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) convincing victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Wednesday night, which not only moved them closer to the playoffs but also sparked discussions about Shreyas Iyer’s outstanding leadership.
PBKS secured a crucial victory that moved them up to second position in the points table in the match played at Chepauk, led by captain Shreyas Iyer‘s commanding 72-run knock to chase down CSK’s 190. One of the key elements of the team’s victory,
According to Ponting, was Shreyas Iyer developing leadership, which he discussed after the game.
During their time with the Delhi Capitals (DC) from 2019 to 2021, Ponting worked closely with Iyer and has been watching the batter’s development. The captain’s game sense and composure under duress have improved since they are back together at PBKS, according to the coach.
He’s far more self-assured now than he was before, and experience makes perfect. “I think the biggest thing with captaincy, especially in a T20 game where everything around you is happening so fast, is when you’ve done that, have that experience behind you, and believe and trust in your own instincts,” Ponting said during his post-match press conference. “He won the IPL last year as captain, so to speak.”
Able to establish a setting that makes everyone really happy: Ricky Ponting
It was unexpected but successful when Iyer called Yuzvendra Chahal to take on MS Dhoni in the 19th over. After a collapse caused by the veteran wicketkeeper-batter falling for 11, Chahal claimed a hat-trick. Iyer did a fantastic job anchoring the innings in reply. He started at 28 off 23 and quickly reached a half-century of 32 balls, finishing with 72 off 41 balls, which included five fours and four sixes.
“He is a more experienced player now, and I believe that he comprehends the game and its circumstances more thoroughly than ever before. I believe that was demonstrated tonight, as he was able to perform the way he did. Since he takes great pride in being the guy who comes through in the end to win games, you can imagine how frustrated he will be with himself for not hitting the game-winning runs or getting his team over the finish line.
Nevertheless, I enjoy working with him, and every gamer enjoys interacting with him. Whether it’s during the game, practice or back at the team hotel, the way he interacts with them has allowed us to establish a great atmosphere where everyone appears to be content and the guys are playing some excellent cricket. In summary, we put on another strong show tonight,” Ponting continued.
Notably, Iyer’s growth has extended beyond his leadership abilities. After being exposed to short-pitched bowling, he changed his technique by extending his stance and aligning his right eye with the ball, which has allowed him to score a lot of runs this season against short deliveries.
“I have no involvement in that. As you can see, his position has changed. He has somewhat opened up his stance. He is focussing his right eye closer to the ball’s release point. Additionally, when the ball is returned to his body, he can create additional access to it because his shoulders are open. Ponting came to the conclusion that he had worked out all of it himself.
India
