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Of the eight teams that have participated in every Indian Premier League (IPL) season since its inception in 2008, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) stand out as the only two franchises yet to get their hands on the coveted IPL title. While RCB have made it to the final match three times, PBKS have only reached the summit clash once. PBKS' title-less campaign in the IPL so far has always put them under strict scrutiny.
Adam Gilchrist on 'erractic' Punjab Kings management
Meanwhile, legendary Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist, who captained Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) from 2011 to 2013, has offered his perspective on the franchise's struggles. He attributed the team's 'below-par' performance during his tenure to 'erratic' management, suggesting that their decisions acted as a 'handbrake' on the team's progress. Gilchrist was acquired by Punjab Kings in the auction leading up to the 2011 IPL season.
Adam Gilchrist's appointment as captain of Punjab Kings was widely regarded as a logical decision, given his proven leadership capabilities in the IPL. He had previously guided the Deccan Chargers to title triumph in the 2009 IPL season. However, despite his experience and credentials, Gilchrist's tenure as captain of Punjab Kings did not result in playoff qualifications. After several seasons with the franchise, he announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League in 2013.
"There’s still the same ownership when I was the captain of that particular franchise, and it was somewhat erratic at times, and that might be the handbrake for them for a long while," Gilchrist said on the YouTube show Club Prairie Fire.
Looking ahead, there's optimism for a shift in the fortunes of the Delhi Capitals. former Australian wicket-keeper batsman Ricky Ponting believes that the dynamic combination of newly appointed captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting will bring about positive change within the franchise. He anticipates that their leadership will create a more stable and effective environment, potentially leading to improved performances on the field.
“I think the combination of Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer will inspire that franchise. They have worked well together previously and that’s going to be the cohesive gel to bring their ownership together. But I think Ricky will settle the ship,” Gilchrist added.
He was also full of praise for the current PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer and went on to declare him the Orange Cap winner of IPL 2025.
“Shreyas Iyer is going to be my Orange Cap wearer by the end of it. He is going to bat at number three. He has been talking about it and he is shifting up the order and taking on the leadership role for them,” Gilchrist concluded.
