Sourav Ganguly responds to rumours of Ricky Ponting becoming India coach

Delhi Capitals have made it to the playoffs this season for the first time since 2012. With 8 wins from 12 games, the national-capital based outfit is in a strong position to finish in the top two. That will give them a couple of chances to make it to their first ever IPL final. And while the credit should definitely go to the players, one just cannot undermine the contribution of head coach Ricky Ponting.

The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Kagiso Rabada and Chris Morris are with the franchise for quite some time now. They, however, had failed to change the team’s fortunes before Ponting took over last season. After a forgettable first season with the team, the legendary cricketer has weaved his magic this time around.  The former Australia skipper has completely transformed the fortunes of a team that is full of youngsters.

The Delhi-based outfit has pretty much made light work of almost all the opposition this seasons as they have won 8 of their 12 matches. Throughout the season, Ponting has been garnering praise for his work. And now quite a number of Indian fans are pondering whether Ponting could become the next coach for Team India. With Ravi Shastri’s contract set to expire after the World Cup, the fans are harbouring the chances of seeing Ponting in the Indian dugout.

However, Sourav Ganguly, who is Delhi Capitals’ advisor this season, has given a not-so-promising update. The former India skipper said that while Ponting has the credentials of becoming India’s next coach, he said he is not too sure over whether the Australian would be willing to spend around 8-9 months in a year away from the family.

“That you have to ask him if he is ready to stay away from home for 8-9 months of a year. But yes, if you talk about credentials, there is no doubt he can be a great candidate,” Ganguly told Cricbuzz.

Relationship with Ricky Ponting

The former India opener also opened up on his relationship with Ponting. Both Ponting and Ganguly were arch-rivals during their playing days. However, the legendary batsman said things have changed now as the friendship between him and Ponting has grown over the years.

“Oh we are great friends. There was a point in time when we were adversaries on the pitch, but over the years our friendship has grown. He has done some great work with the boys and it’s showing,” Ganguly said.

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