Shikhar Dhawan Reveals Why Players Respect Ricky Ponting As Head Coach

Shikhar Dhawan reveals why players respect Ricky Ponting as head coach. (Picture Credit: Sportzpics)

Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals from 2018 to 2021 under Ricky Ponting’s coaching. In a recent podcast, the former left-handed opening batter shared his admiration for him and recalled the Australian legend’s impact as a coach and leader during his stint with Delhi Capitals.

Speaking about Punjab Kings’ performance in the latest IPL season, Dhawan highlighted how vital strong leadership is for building a winning team.

“Shreyas and Ricky Ponting are a wonderful combination and they both made a very good team this year. Ricky is a very positive person, very strong. His thought process and his skills stand out. A good player can make you win matches, but if you want to win the tournament, the entire team needs to perform well. Hence, making a good team is really essential and Ricky Ponting is very strong as a coach,” Dhawan said.

Reflecting on his own experience under Ponting’s guidance at Delhi Capitals, Dhawan emphasized how the former Australian captain’s approach uplifted the entire squad.

“We worked together when I was in Delhi Capitals, and it was a really good stint. He used to appreciate small things—even if you scored 15-20 runs, he would acknowledge it. He also spent time with net bowlers and players on the bench, which really boosted their confidence” he noted.

Dhawan praised Ponting’s straightforward communication and ability to command respect in the dressing room.

“He was very clear on good performances and also on the areas we lacked in. His communication was very good, and his command over the boys was excellent. The players respected him and looked up to him because he had strong control, but in a very positive way,” Dhawan added.

While Dhawan had plenty of words of admiration for Ponting, he also hinted at how those lessons have shaped him personally. Now retired from international cricket, Shikhar continues to carry the values he admired in Ponting—positivity, appreciation for every effort, and clear communication—into his own journey beyond the field.

For Dhawan, looking back at his career, it’s these experiences with leaders like Ponting that have helped him evolve not just as a cricketer, but also as a person ready to guide and inspire the next generation in different ways.