Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting is unhappy with the scheduling of the IPL 2025 auction. The event will take place on November 24-25, clashing with the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth. Ponting has called the timing “the worst possible case scenario” for him and fellow coach Justin Langer.
Clash Between IPL Auction and Test Match
The IPL auction is scheduled for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, while the first Test is being played in Perth. Ponting and Langer, who are part of Channel Seven’s commentary team, will only be present for Day 1 of the match. They will leave for the auction immediately after, creating a gap in their commentary duties.
Daniel Vettori, Australia’s bowling coach, will miss the entire Perth Test as he focuses on his role with Sunrisers Hyderabad at the auction.
Ponting’s Frustration
Ponting expressed his disappointment about the timing. “We thought the auction would happen between the Test matches,” he said. He explained this would have eased the pressure on everyone, including the players involved in the auction.
The auction starts right after the day’s play in Perth, leading Ponting to speculate that broadcast needs might have influenced the schedule.
Commentary Disruption
Channel Seven confirmed that Ponting and Langer will miss most of the first Test. They will return in time for the second Test, starting December 6 in Adelaide. Chris Jones, Seven’s director of sport, defended the duo’s absence. He said their insights as IPL coaches add value to the broadcast.
Adjustments for Vettori’s Absence
To cover for Vettori, Cricket Australia has brought in Lachlan Stevens, the head of their under-19 program. Head coach Andrew McDonald is also expected to take on some of Vettori’s responsibilities.
The clash between the IPL auction and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has sparked criticism. Fans and experts believe the timing could have been better. The series is one of cricket’s biggest rivalries, and the disruption has raised questions about planning.
Ponting’s Travel Plans
Ricky Ponting will call the first day of the Test before flying to Jeddah on Friday night. Depending on the auction’s progress, he hopes to return for the end of the Perth Test. If not, he will rejoin for the Adelaide Test.
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