Arshdeep Singh, India’s rising T20 star, made headlines at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction. Punjab Kings (PBKS) retained him for a record-breaking INR 18 crores. The 25-year-old left-arm pacer is India’s second-best T20 bowler after Jasprit Bumrah. He continues with PBKS, where he’s played since his 2019 IPL debut.
This historic retention makes Arshdeep the most expensive pacer in IPL history. It underscores his rising status in Indian cricket and the IPL.
PBKS Retains Arshdeep Singh for INR 18 Crores
Punjab Kings secured Arshdeep Singh’s services using their Right to Match (RTM) card at INR 18 crores. The bidding war for Arshdeep began with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) entering at his base price of INR 2 crores. Delhi Capitals (DC) joined the fray, driving the bids to INR 7.5 crores before CSK dropped out. Gujarat Titans (GT) then entered, followed by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Later, Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) joined.
The intense bidding battle culminated with SRH offering INR 18 crores. However, PBKS used their RTM card to match the bid. This ensured Arshdeep stayed with the franchise that nurtured his IPL career.
Arshdeep Singh’s IPL Career: A Steady Rise
Arshdeep Singh has been a consistent performer for Punjab Kings since his IPL debut in 2019. In six seasons, the left-arm seamer has played 65 IPL matches. He took 76 wickets at a great average and strike rate. He has two four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul. This shows he can deliver in crunch situations.
Key IPL Stats:
- Matches Played: 65
- Wickets Taken: 76
- Best Figures: 5/32
- Economy Rate: 8.35
- 2024 IPL Season Wickets: 19
Arshdeep’s standout season came in IPL 2024 when he picked up 19 wickets, his highest tally in a single season. Despite his great performance, PBKS initially released him. Then, he was bought back in the mega auction for a record sum.
Arshdeep’s Impact on International Cricket
Beyond the IPL, Arshdeep has cemented his place in India’s T20 setup since his debut in 2022. The left-arm pacer has emerged as one of the top three T20I wicket-takers for India.
His crowning achievement came during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He was a joint-leading wicket-taker, with 17 scalps. With a bowling average of 12.64 and an economy rate of 7.16, Arshdeep was key to India’s title win. He had standout performances, including in the final against South Africa.
Why Arshdeep Singh is Worth INR 18 Crores
Arshdeep Singh’s precise bowling under pressure has made him a top IPL pacer. He excels in the powerplay and death overs.
- IPL Consistency: In the last four IPL seasons, Arshdeep took 17 or more wickets in three editions. This proves his reliability and ability to deliver year after year.
- Death-Over Specialist: His yorkers and tricks make him a dangerous bowler in the final overs.
- Global Cred: Arshdeep’s T20 World Cup 2024 shows he can handle high-pressure games.
PBKS’s decision to retain Arshdeep for INR 18 crores shows their confidence. They believe he can lead the bowling attack and win matches.
