An elated Preity Zinta, co-owner of the Punjab Kings, showered praise on skipper Shreyas Iyer after the team secured a historic seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in Jaipur, sealing their spot in the IPL playoffs for the first time in eleven years.
“We are lucky that we have Shreyas Iyer,” said Zinta in a post-match interview with broadcasters. “He has been a fantastic captain and is a great leader. And Ricky Ponting as a coach — their combination has done wonders for us.”
The win propelled Punjab Kings into the first qualifier, which will be played at their new home ground — the PCA Stadium in Mullanpur. A victory there would secure their place in the IPL final, marking a fairytale turnaround for the franchise that had long struggled to break into the top tier.
“Super excited to play in Mullanpur,” Zinta beamed. “Things changed, but I’m not complaining.”
Reflecting on the team’s journey this season, the actress-turned-sports entrepreneur said: “Ifs and buts we can forget. I am just excited and taking each day as it comes. We want to win for our fans. Our fanbase has always supported us — it will be for all the Punjab Kings fans.”
When asked about the ups and downs of previous seasons, Zinta acknowledged the uncertainty of cricket: “We have no control over what happens on the ground. We can only choose the right team. You can always have good players and a good team, but the captain who is leading the team is setting an example. The synergy between captain and coach — that’s really what changes the dynamic of the team.”
With renewed spirit, a sharp leadership duo, and unwavering fan support, Punjab Kings now stand on the cusp of making IPL history — all under the leadership of their “captain fantastic.”
