IPL Auction 2025: 7 players Punjab Kings could target using their remaining budget

Punjab Kings (PBKS), who finished ninth in the IPL 2024 season, are embarking on a complete squad overhaul ahead of the IPL 2025 auction . After opting not to retain any of their capped players, PBKS is building a fresh 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).

With several key players like Arshdeep Singh, Jitesh Sharma and Kagiso Rabada being released, PBKS will need to target the right players in the upcoming auction to form a competitive squad. Given the available whopping Rs 110.5 crore in their purse, here are seven key players PBKS is likely to target at the IPL 2025 auction.

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PBKS remaining purse: Rs 110.5 crore; RTM slots available: 4; Available player slots: 23 (8 overseas)

7 Players PBKS Will Target

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting and leadership qualities could make him an ideal captain for PBKS. With Ricky Ponting heading their team management , Pant may be a player PBKS targets as their potential captain. And they have the budget to buy in through the auction. Pant’s versatility, both as a keeper and a batsman, makes him a valuable addition to the squad. Given his star status, he is expected to be the most expensive IPL player ever, with his price potentially reaching Rs 25-26 crore. This could make him a key strategic acquisition for PBKS if they are willing to go all in for a game-changer.

Potential Budget: Rs 25-26 crore

Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh, a fast bowler who has been exceptional in the IPL and at the international level, is PBKS’s top RTM priority.

Although PBKS opted not to retain him, his outstanding form, including a strong showing at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, will make him a valuable target. They might aim to bring him back for a reduced price, making him one of their most important acquisitions in the auction.

Potential Budget: Rs 16-18 crore

Jitesh Sharma

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

Although his international T20I form hasn’t been stellar, PBKS might use their RTM card to bring him back at a lower price 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 wicket-taking ability will make him a key target for PBKS, who could use their RTM to bring him back. Rabada’s experience and form at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 further add to his value.

Potential Budget: Rs 12-15 crore

5. Liam Livingstone

Liam Livingstone, an all-rounder who has contributed both with the bat and the ball, will be a key target for PBKS. With a strong international career and his explosive batting, Livingstone has been a match-winner for PBKS. His ability to turn games 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 solid IPL and international record. Known for his stability and tactical approach, he could bring much-needed solidity to PBKS’s batting lineup. Given his leadership capabilities 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

Both Adam Zampa and Wanindu Hasaranga are top-quality spinners with international pedigree, and PBKS could target one of them to strengthen their spin bowling attack. Zampa has been highly effective in limited-overs cricket, offering control and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs. Similarly, Hasaranga, one of the most sought-after T20 spinners globally, has been a match-winner in multiple T20 leagues. Either of them could be a valuable addition to PBKS’ squad, with both expected to cost around INR 6-8 crore.

Potential Budget: Rs 6-8 crore

PBKS’ Probable Auction Strategy

With a remaining purse of Rs 110.5 crore, PBKS will be aiming to rebuild their squad 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 solid middle-order batsman, an experienced pacer, and a quality spinner like Zampa or Hasaranga.

Given their need to balance the squad, PBKS will look to invest in players who offer match-winning potential at a reasonable price. With four RTM cards and a clear rebuilding strategy, PBKS will aim to create a well-rounded team capable of challenging for the top positions in IPL 2025.