Shikhar Dhawan, the former India opener, recently opened up about his experience playing under Ricky Ponting at Delhi Capitals and why the Australian legend commands immense respect as a coach. Ponting, who guided Delhi from 2018 to 2024 before joining Punjab Kings in 2025, has built a reputation for his leadership, positivity, and clarity.
Strong Leadership and Team Building
Reflecting on Punjab Kings’ recent IPL campaign, Dhawan emphasized the importance of leadership in shaping a winning side.
“Shreyas and Ricky were a wonderful combination. Ricky is very positive, very strong in his thought process and skills. A single player can win you matches, but to win a tournament, the entire team must click. Ricky is exceptional in building such a team,” Dhawan said.
Ponting’s Influence at Delhi Capitals
During his stint at Delhi Capitals, Dhawan experienced Ponting’s unique approach firsthand. He recalled how Ponting valued even the smallest contributions.
“Even if you scored 15-20 runs, he made sure to acknowledge it. He also spent time with net bowlers and bench players, boosting their confidence. That created a positive environment in the squad,” Dhawan shared.
Respect Through Communication
Dhawan also credited Ponting’s straightforward communication and ability to inspire trust.
“He was clear about good performances and areas we needed to improve. His command over the dressing room was excellent — strong, but always positive. That’s why players respected and admired him,” Dhawan explained.
Lessons Beyond Cricket
Now retired from international cricket, Dhawan admits he carries those lessons with him off the field. Positivity, appreciation for every effort, and clear communication — values he admired in Ponting — have shaped him both as a cricketer and as a person ready to mentor the next generation.
For Dhawan, Ponting’s leadership wasn’t just about winning matches, but about building a culture where every player felt valued and motivated.
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