Shikhar Dhawan has always played cricket with a smile, his trademark celebrations and fearless stroke play making him one of the most loved openers of India. But behind that carefree personality lies a player who has drawn inspiration from the people around him. One of those figures, he admits, is Ricky Ponting.
Shikhar Dhawan spent four seasons with Delhi Capitals between 2018 and 2021, when Ricky Ponting was head coach. Looking back, he describes those years as more than just a professional stint, they were a time of growth, both on and off the field. For him, Ricky Ponting’s impact was not about technical advice alone. It was about how he made every individual in the squad feel valued.
Shikhar Dhawan remembers how Ricky Ponting would applaud even a small effort, whether it was a 20-run knock or a useful spell. He noticed how the Australian legend treated net bowlers and bench players with the same respect as the stars. Dhawan feels that it created a sense of belonging in the team. He said that such little gestures not only built confidence but also strengthened the bonding in the team.
Talking about the recent season with Punjab Kings, Shikhar Dhawan reflected on how important leadership is in the IPL. A brilliant player can win matches but a team only wins tournaments when everyone pulls in the same direction. For him, Ricky Ponting’s strength lay in his clarity and honesty. He praised when praise was due but he also pointed out flaws directly, in a way that earned trust rather than fear.
What struck Shikhar Dhawan the most was the respect Ricky Ponting commanded in the dressing room. It was not just because of his name or career but because of the fairness and positivity he showed every day. Dhawan said that players looked up to him because they knew he genuinely cared.
Now retired from international cricket, Shikhar Dhawan carries those lessons forward. He sees leadership not only as strategy but as the ability to uplift people, appreciate their efforts and communicate openly. For him, the time spent under Ricky Ponting was more than about cricket, it was about learning values he hopes to pass on to the next generation.
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