Shreyas Iyer has been named the new captain of India's T20I team, a decision that has garnered praise from Ricky Ponting, head coach of Punjab Kings. Ponting, who has worked closely with Iyer in the Indian Premier League (IPL), emphasized the player's evolution over the past few years. He noted Iyer's transition from an anchor batsman to a more aggressive player, significantly contributing to Punjab Kings' success, including reaching the finals last season. Ponting stated that Iyer's hard work and perseverance, despite not always being selected for the national team, have led to this recognition. He expressed confidence in Iyer's abilities as a captain, highlighting his growth in leadership and maturity. Ponting also acknowledged the competitive landscape of Indian cricket, stating that Iyer's appointment reflects his merit among many talented players in the current team. Overall, Ponting believes Iyer will excel in his new role as captain of India’s T20I side.