Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has landed the head coaching role with IPL franchise the Punjab Kings for the next four years.
Ponting, who has held previous roles with Mumbai and Delhi, as well as the Washington Freedom and an interim position with Australia, brings a wealth of experience to Punjab as one of the sport's all-time greatest players.
The 49-year-old scored over 27,000 runs for Australia across Test and ODI cricket in a career that spanned two decades, with Ponting helping lead his nation to World Cup wins in 1999, 2003 and 2007.
"I am grateful to Punjab Kings for presenting me with the opportunity to be the new Head Coach," Ponting said in a statement.
"I am excited to take up the new challenge. I had great conversations with the owners and the management about the way forward and was truly elated to see the alignment of our visions for the team.
"We all want to repay the fans who have stayed with the franchise over the years and we promise that they will see a much different Punjab Kings going forward."
Punjab managed just five wins from 14 games during the 2024 IPL season and parted ways with ex-coach Trevor Bayliss soon after the conclusion of their most recent tournament.
"We are delighted to have Ricky on to guide and build our team for the next 4 seasons," Kings CEO Satish Menon said of the appointment.
"His experience is crucial to help us develop a squad to deliver on-field success. His insights from his international coaching stints and as a television pundit would be vital in identifying talent ahead of the mega auction this year.
"His ability to develop cricketing and leadership skills will play a crucial role in our success."
Ponting will take over from the 2025 season on a four-year deal.