In a major overhaul of their management ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025 Auction), Punjab Kings have parted ways with both their Director of Cricket, Sanjay Bangar, and head coach Trevor Bayliss. The move comes as part of a larger reset initiated by the franchise, which has been searching for the winning formula after a series of disappointing seasons.
Sanjay Bangar and Trevor Bayliss depart
Sanjay Bangar, who joined Punjab Kings as their Director of Cricket in December 2023, has been let go by the franchise as per ESPNcricinfo. Bangar had previously been associated with the team as head coach during the 2014-2016 seasons, a period when the team reached the final in 2014. However, his second stint with the Kings has been cut short as the franchise looks to make a fresh start.
Trevor Bayliss, the head coach for Punjab Kings since IPL 2022, has also been shown the door. Bayliss was brought in to replace Anil Kumble, but under his leadership, the team finished eighth in 2023 and ninth in 2024, failing to make a significant impact in the league.
Ricky Ponting to lead new era
The restructuring of Punjab Kings began with the appointment of former Australian captain Ricky Ponting as the team’s new head coach. Ponting, known for his aggressive leadership style and sharp cricketing mind, signed a four-year contract (2025-2028) with the franchise. Ponting’s arrival signals a new direction for the Kings, as they aim to shake off the inconsistency that has plagued them for years.
In a recent interview, Ponting shared his vision for Punjab Kings: “The biggest thing I want to do is make everyone aware that it’s going to be a different place. We are not going to sit back and accept mediocrity. People are going to talk about this team and this franchise in a different way.”
Punjab Kings struggles with stability
Punjab Kings have struggled to maintain stability in their coaching setup over the past decade. In fact, since 2014, the franchise has had a revolving door of coaches, with Sanjay Bangar, Virender Sehwag, Brad Hodge, Mike Hesson, Anil Kumble, and Trevor Bayliss all taking up the role at different points. Despite these changes, the team has yet to secure an IPL title, and the constant churn has done little to solidify their place as title contenders.
Preparing for IPL 2025 Auction
With the IPL 2025 Auction looming, Punjab Kings are keen to enter the new season with a clean slate. The removal of Bangar and Bayliss is part of this strategy, as the franchise aims to rebuild its core both on and off the field. Under Ponting’s leadership, Punjab Kings are expected to be more dynamic and focused as they prepare for the auction.
New Chapter for Punjab Kings
The upcoming IPL 2025 season will be a crucial one for Punjab Kings, a team that has consistently struggled to perform at the highest level. With Ponting at the helm and a full reset in motion, the franchise hopes to turn its fortunes around and finally bring home the coveted IPL trophy.
As the countdown to IPL 2025 begins, Punjab Kings’ fans will be eager to see if the new changes can deliver the success that has long eluded their team.
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