While the roar of the crowd at the IPL 2025 final may have faded for Punjab Kings fans, a different kind of buzz is now circulating, thanks to a viral exchange between PBKS coach Ricky Ponting and co-owner Preity Zinta. Despite the team’s narrow six-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a nail-biting encounter that saw RCB claim their maiden IPL crown, Ponting’s unique blend of intensity and affability has become a talking point, particularly after a playful interaction with Preity.
The 18th edition of the IPL concluded with a dramatic final, where Preity’s Punjab Kings, also vying for their first title since 2014, ultimately fell short against a determined RCB. The heartbreak of the loss, however, hasn’t diminished the widespread appreciation for Ponting’s leadership and the strong rapport he fostered within the squad.
Ricky Ponting’s reply leaves Preity Zinta amused
Following the final, the former Australian captain commended his team’s performance, highlighting their distinct approach this season. It was in a recent video shared on Punjab Kings’ official X handle that Ponting’s lighter side came to the fore. In a candid moment, co-owner and Bollywood actress Preity Zinta posed a question to the veteran coach, expressing her curiosity about his seemingly contrasting demeanour on and off the field.
“How does somebody be so aggressive on the ground and as a person, but be so calm and chilled out?” Zinta inquired, reflecting a sentiment often shared by those who have observed Ponting’s on-field intensity as a player and now as a coach. Known for his fiery passion during matches, Ponting also possesses a reputation for being polite and amiable away from the competitive arena.
With a chuckle, Ponting delivered a memorable response that quickly went viral. “You need to come and sit next to me in the dugout sometimes because you will see that it’s not always calm,” he quipped, offering a humorous debunking of Zinta’s assumption. He further elaborated on his inherent aggressive nature, especially when it pertains to cricket. This assertion resonated with many, given his track record of wearing his heart on his sleeve during games.
Here’s the video:
Ponting mentality – Train with passion, roar with aggression 💪🔥
Don’t miss the full video on our YouTube channel and app. 📹 pic.twitter.com/L0EWSmRXGX
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) June 7, 2025
Also READ: “She deserves that trophy more…”: Fans react as Preity Zinta breaks down in tears after Punjab Kings lose the IPL 2025 final to RCB
Ponting enjoys light-hearted interactions
Ponting also made headlines this season for his unwavering faith in captain Shreyas Iyer, who was not retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but was entrusted with the leadership of Punjab Kings, a decision that ultimately guided them to their first final in over a decade.
The Australian legend then clarified that his jovial and cheerful disposition is very much present outside of cricket, where he enjoys light-hearted interactions with anyone. However, he emphasized that when it comes to his professional duties, there is no room for compromise.
“I’ll have a laugh and a joke and a coffee and a sit down with anyone and talk about anything outside of cricket time,” Ponting stated earnestly. “But when it’s cricket time, it’s my job to bring high performance to this team. And so I’m not gonna waste a minute, I’m not gonna waste a day, I’m not gonna waste a training session where I’m not trying to be the best coach that I can be and make every single player that’s playing with me the best player that they can be.”
Also READ: Preity Zinta shares an emotional post after Punjab Kings’ heartbreaking defeat in the IPL 2025 final
