IPL 2025: PBKS CEO Satish Menon Hails Ricky Ponting For Persuading Overseas Players To Stay Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
In a remarkable display of leadership, Punjab Kings (PBKS) head coach Ricky Ponting played a pivotal role in maintaining team cohesion during a period of uncertainty in the IPL 2025 season. Following escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended the IPL for a week, prompting many overseas players to consider returning home.
Ponting, who had already boarded a flight back to Australia, made the decisive choice to deboard after a ceasefire was announced between the two nations. Demonstrating commitment to his team, he not only stayed back in India but also persuaded several of PBKS's foreign players to remain, ensuring the squad's stability ahead of the tournament's resumption.
PBKS CEO Satish Menon lauded Ponting's actions, highlighting the coach's dedication and influence in keeping the team united during challenging times. With the core players still in the country, PBKS is well-positioned to resume their IPL campaign strongly, aiming for their first playoff appearance since 2014.
"It shows Ponting's character. Only he could have pulled that off. Not only he voluntarily decided to stay back, he gave a motivational talk to the foreign players who had left for their respective destinations but now will be joining the team at the earliest," Satish Menon told PTI.
Ponting's leadership not only ensured the team's continuity but also reinforced the importance of resilience and unity in the face of adversity. As the IPL 2025 season progresses, PBKS's response to this crisis could serve as a defining moment in their pursuit of the championship.
BCCI Considers Extending IPL 2025 Final Amid Resumption Plans: Reports
In light of recent developments, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly contemplating extending the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season until May 30. This consideration follows the tournament's suspension due to geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, which have since eased with a declared ceasefire. The resumption of the IPL is now underway, with matches set to recommence shortly.
According to Indian Express reports, the BCCI is planning to utilize Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad as venues for the remaining fixtures starting May 16. These cities are being considered due to their relative safety and infrastructure capabilities. The revised schedule is expected to be shared with franchises by Sunday night.
The IPL 2025 season, which commenced on March 22, was originally slated to conclude on May 25, with the final scheduled at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. However, the unforeseen suspension necessitated a reevaluation of the timeline and logistics.
The BCCI's prompt actions aim to ensure the successful completion of the tournament, maintaining the integrity of the competition and fulfilling commitments to stakeholders and fans alike. Further details regarding the updated schedule and logistics are anticipated in the coming days.
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