New Delhi, May 11 — Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting, who was preparing to leave India amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, made a last-minute decision to disembark from his flight. His gesture, followed by a motivational conversation with his team, played a pivotal role in convincing several foreign players to stay back in India.
As per agency report, Ponting, a former Australian captain and World Cup winner, had the option to return home when many were concerned about the worsening geopolitical situation. However, he chose to remain in Delhi and persuaded his team’s foreign players not to leave the country, even after a temporary ceasefire was announced between the two nations.
Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon confirmed that Ponting addressed the group of foreign players directly and reassured them through a compelling and reassuring discussion. The team had just arrived in Delhi from Dharamsala by train after their May 8 IPL match was canceled due to escalating security concerns. The traveling group included Australian players Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, and Xavier Bartlett, who were reportedly anxious about the situation.
A team insider noted that foreign players, unfamiliar with such circumstances, were understandably eager to leave. Led by Stoinis, the group was on the verge of departure before Ponting’s intervention. His calm demeanor and leadership reportedly helped diffuse the tension and encourage the players to remain with the team.
South African all-rounder Marco Jansen was the only foreign player from the team to leave India temporarily. However, he is currently in Dubai, which is geographically close, making his return relatively simple.
With the Indian Premier League expected to resume shortly following the temporary suspension, Punjab Kings appear to be in a strong position. Most of their key Indian and overseas players are still in the country, ensuring minimal disruption to team dynamics once the tournament restarts.
