Punjab Kings (PBKS), who finished ninth in the IPL 2024 season, embark on a
complete squad overhaul ahead of IPL 2025 auction. After choosing not to retain any of its selected players, PBKS is building a new team from scratch.
The only two players they have retained are uncapped talents Shashank Singh (INR 5.5 crores) and Prabhsimran Singh (INR 4 crores).

IPL 2025 Auction |
Event schedule, dates, location, live stream and everything you need to know

With the release of several key players like Arshdeep Singh, Jitesh Sharma and Kagiso Rabada, PBKS will have to target the right players in the upcoming auction to form a competitive team. Considering the huge amount of Rs 110.5 crore available in their purse, here are seven key players that PBKS is likely to target in the IPL 2025 auction.

Remaining PBKS scholarship: Rs 110.5 million; RTM locations available: 4; Available player slots: 23 (8 abroad)

7 Players PBKS Will Target

Rishabh pants

Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting and leadership qualities could make him an ideal captain for PBKS. With
Ricky Ponting at the helm of their team managementPant could be a player targeted by PBKS as a potential captain. And they have the budget to buy at auction. Pant’s versatility, both as a keeper and a batsman, makes him a valuable addition to the team. Given his star status, he is expected to be the most expensive IPL player of all time, with his price tag reaching Rs 25-26 crore. This could make him a key strategic acquisition for PBKS if they are willing to do whatever it takes to turn things around.

Potential budget: Rs 25-26 crore

Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh, a fast bowler who has been exceptional in the IPL and internationally, is PBKS’ RTM priority.

Although PBKS opted not to retain him, his exceptional form, including a strong performance at the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, will make him a valuable target. They could aim to bring it back at a discounted price, making it one of their most important acquisitions at the auction.

Potential budget: Rs 16-18 crore

Jitesh Sharma

Jitesh Sharma has been one of the most aggressive players in PBKS with the bat. His strike rate of 151 in three IPL seasons proves his winning potential.

Although his international T20I form hasn’t been great, PBKS could use his RTM card to bring him back for less than his previous cost. His ability to hit big and finish games makes him a valuable asset.

Potential budget: Rs 7-10 crore

4. Kagiso Rabada

Kagiso Rabada has been a standout performer for PBKS in the IPL, taking 41 wickets in 30 matches over the last three seasons. His pace and ability to take wickets will make him a key target for PBKS, who could use his RTM to bring him back. Rabada’s experience and form in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 further adds to his value.

Potential budget: Rs 12-15 crore

5. Liam Livingstone

Liam Livingstone, an all-rounder who has contributed with both bat and ball, will be a key target for PBKS. With a strong international career and his explosive bat, Livingstone won the match for PBKS. His ability to turn things around makes him a crucial part of PBKS’ rebuilding plan, and they could look to use their RTM card to secure him for IPL 2025.

Potential budget: Rs 8-10 crore

6. Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer is an experienced middle-order batsman with a strong IPL and international record. Known for his stability and tactical approach, he could bring much-needed solidity to PBKS’ batting lineup. Given his leadership abilities and strong IPL pedigree, PBKS could target him as a key middle-order anchor.

Potential budget: Rs 12-15 crore

7. Adam Zampa / Wanindu Hasaranga

Adam Zampa and Wanindu Hasaranga are both high-quality spinners with international pedigree, and PBKS could target one of them to strengthen their spin bowling attack. Zampa was very effective in limited-overs cricket, providing control and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs. Similarly, Hasaranga, one of the most sought after T20 spinners in the world, has won several matches in several T20 leagues. Either one could be a valuable addition to the PBKS team, with both expected to cost around INR 6-8 crores.

Potential budget: Rs 6-8 crore

Probable bidding strategy of PBKS

With a remaining purse of Rs 110.5 crore, PBKS will aim to rebuild their team with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Their strategy will likely focus on targeting key players, such as Pant, Arshdeep, Rabada and Livingstone, while also looking for value buys in key areas like a strong middle-order batsman, experienced pacer and spinner quality like Zampa or Hasaranga.

Given their need to balance the team, PBKS will look to invest in players with winning potential at a reasonable price. With four RTM maps and a clear rebuilding strategy, PBKS will aim to create a complete team capable of fighting for the top positions in IPL 2025.