Punjab Kings Retention Shake-Up: A Bold Strategy for IPL 2025
Punjab Kings (PBKS) have made headlines with their IPL 2025 retention list. They retained just two players: Shashank Singh (₹5.5 crore) and Prabhsimran Singh (₹4 crore). This bold move gives PBKS a unique ₹110.5 crore purse to dominate the mega auction.
The franchise’s strategy suggests a new way to rebuild. But, they may still look to their former stars. The Right to Match (RTM) card could allow them to bring back key players who excelled in past seasons. Here’s a look at three potential RTM targets for PBKS.
1.Arshdeep Singh: The Death-Over Specialist
Arshdeep Singh has been key to PBKS’ bowling. He performs well under pressure. The left-arm pacer has 76 wickets in 65 matches, with a best of 5/32. He can handle high-stakes situations, especially in the death overs.
Arshdeep Singh’s IPL Stats:
- Matches: 65
- Wickets: 76
- Economy Rate:03
- Strike Rate:95
- Best Figures: 5/32
Arshdeep, with his fiery spirit, is a fan favorite in Punjab. His never-give-up attitude wins them over. Retaining him via RTM would give PBKS a reliable Indian pacer. He would lead their attack, making him a top contender for re-signing.
2.Kagiso Rabada: A Proven Match-Winner
Kagiso Rabada has been vital to PBKS since 2022. He has 117 wickets in 80 IPL matches at a 21.97 average. His ability to strike at a rate of 15.54 and keep an economy of 8.48 makes him a world-class pacer.
However, Rabada’s recent seasons have been underwhelming. In IPL 2024, he managed just 11 wickets in 11 games, with an average of 33.82. Despite his dip in form, Rabada is a game-changer. He delivers in crucial moments. PBKS might want to reconsider him.
Kagiso Rabada’s IPL Career Stats:
- Matches: 80
- Wickets: 117
- Economy Rate:48
- Strike Rate:54
If PBKS wants to strengthen their bowling, they might bid for Rabada with an RTM.
3.Liam Livingstone: The All-Round Powerhouse
PBKS signed Liam Livingstone for ₹11.5 crore in 2022, making him an instant hit. That season, he smashed 437 runs at a blistering strike rate of 182.08 while also chipping in with his leg-spin. His ability to clear boundaries with ease and provide balance as an all-rounder is a rare asset.
Since his breakout season, Livingstone’s IPL form has been inconsistent. But, his recent international performances have improved. His versatility and knowledge of the PBKS setup could make him a good option for the team as they rebuild.
Liam Livingstone’s IPL 2022 Stats:
- Runs: 437
- Strike Rate:08
- Sixes: 34
Re-signing Livingstone through RTM could boost PBKS’ middle order and add a bowler.
Final Thoughts: PBKS’ Auction Strategy
With ₹110.5 crore in hand, PBKS has the financial flexibility to make big moves in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Using the RTM card on proven performers like Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada, and Liam Livingstone could help the franchise. It would balance experience and fresh talent.
As the auction nears, all will watch Punjab Kings. They will seek to build a title-winning squad with a risky, high-reward strategy.
