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Cricket legend Ricky Ponting dropped a bombshell about his faith in Shreyas Iyer during the IPL 2026 auction. The former Australian captain, now Punjab Kings coach, said he made sure the team had deep pockets just to snag the star batsman. “I made sure we had enough money,” Ponting revealed, stunning fans and experts alike.
Speaking at a press meet after Punjab Kings bought Iyer for a whopping Rs 26.75 crore, Ponting explained his bold move. Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title in 2024, faced a tough time last season. Injuries and poor form saw KKR release him. But Ponting saw the fire in the 31-year-old right-hander. “Shreyas is a proven leader. He knows how to win big games,” Ponting said. He praised Iyer’s calm head and big-match temperament, calling him the perfect fit for Punjab’s revival.
Ponting didn’t stop there. He revealed he pushed the team owners hard before the auction. “We planned our budget around him. No way were we letting him slip,” the 51-year-old coach added with a grin. Punjab Kings, who finished seventh last year, hope Iyer’s arrival sparks a turnaround. The team also grabbed all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and young pacer Mayank Yadav in the mega auction.
Fans on social media are buzzing. “Ponting’s trust in Iyer is gold!” tweeted one supporter. Critics wonder if the high price tag will pay off, given Iyer’s recent dips. But Ponting is unfazed. “Watch him shine this season,” he promised.
With start of IPL 2026, all eyes are on this duo. Can Iyer repay Ponting’s gamble and lead Punjab to glory? Cricket lovers can’t wait to find out.
