Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has officially been appointed as the new captain of Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Iyer was the second-most expensive player in the IPL 2025 mega auction that was bought by Punjab Kings for Rs 26.75 crore, which was held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With this, Iyer has become the 17th player to play the role of captain of the franchise. The announcement was made on the TV reality show Bigg Boss 18, where Iyer joined teammates Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh as guests.
Iyer said in a release that he is honoured that the team showed faith in him and is looking forward to work with coach Ricky Ponting. He hopes to live up to the faith the management has shown in him and win his first title.
On Iyer's appointment as the captain of Punjab Kings, Ricky Ponting said that he has a great mind for the game and he has also proved his abilities as a captain. He also said that he enjoyed his past days working with Iyer in the IPL and is looking forward to working with him again.
"I am proud that the team has shown faith in me again. I'm looking forward to working with coach (Ricky Ponting) again. The team is looking strong, with a great mix of potential and proven performers. I hope we can repay the trust shown by the management by winning our first title. "
"Shreyas has a great brain for the game. His proven abilities as a captain will enable the team to perform better. I have enjoyed my time with Iyer in the IPL, and I am looking forward to working with him again. With his leadership and talent in the team. I am excited for the upcoming season. "