IPL 2025: Punjab Kings sack World Cup-winning coach, Ponting becomes head coach

Punjab Kings have taken a big decision for IPL 2025 and have decided to part ways with head coach Trevor Bayliss and cricket development head Sanjay Bangar. Bayliss was appointed the head coach of the team last year, where he replaced former India spinner Anil Kumble. The Punjab team has not been able to perform well in the IPL for the last few years, where the team has not been able to make it to the playoffs even once in the last ten years. Also, the team has not been able to win the trophy even once. The team finished eighth last year and ninth this year.

Bayliss has made many teams champions

Australia's Bayliss has won titles around the world as coach of several teams, including the 2019 World Cup with England, two IPL titles with Kolkata Knight Riders, Big Bash League with Sydney Sixers. Ahead of the mega auction ahead of IPL 2025, Punjab is keen to enter the new season with a fresh staff. The removal of Banger and Bayliss is part of this strategy, as the franchise now looks to rebuild itself on and off the field.

Punjab keeps changing coaches from time to time

Kumble was the head coach of the team from 2020 to 2022 and during this time the team could not make it to the playoffs even once. Let us tell you that Punjab keeps changing coaches constantly. In 2016, the team removed Sanjay Bangar from the post of head coach and appointed Kumble as the coach. The franchise will now also be looking for a new captain, as Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this year, citing 'lack of motivation'.

Ponting was made the head coach of the team

Punjab recently roped in Ponting, who parted ways with Delhi Capitals after spending 7 years with them. On this, Ponting said, 'I am very happy to be back in the IPL. It has been a big part of my life. I have been in the IPL for 10-11 years. What pulls me back to the IPL is the level of cricket and the quality of players you get to work with.