As the IPL 2025 auction approaches, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for a fresh chapter, with major changes in their squad. The team, under the guidance of new head coach Ricky Ponting, has made bold decisions, retaining only two players ahead of the mega auction.
However, the Kings will have the opportunity to utilize their four Right-To-Match (RTM) cards, giving them a chance to bring back several key players released earlier. With a purse of INR 110.5 crores, the team is in a prime position to make strategic moves. Let’s take a look at five players PBKS might target through their RTM cards during the IPL 2025 auction.
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5 Players Punjab Kings (PBKS) Could Target Through RTM Card
1. Arshdeep Singh: The Top Priority
Arshdeep Singh will undoubtedly be Punjab’s top target when the RTM cards come into play. Despite his strong performances in recent years, the franchise surprisingly chose to release him ahead of the 2025 auction. Arshdeep has been one of India’s premier T20 bowlers, picking up 64 wickets over the last four IPL seasons. His impressive performance at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, where he was the joint-leading wicket-taker, further solidifies his value.
Although PBKS might have felt they could get him back for a lower price than his retention cost of INR 18 crores, his form and the scarcity of quality Indian seamers could see Arshdeep fetch a higher bid. Despite the risk, it’s highly likely that PBKS will use their RTM card to bring back the left-arm pacer, who has become one of the most consistent bowlers in the IPL.
2. Jitesh Sharma: The Explosive Wicketkeeper-Batsman
Another unexpected release from PBKS was that of Jitesh Sharma, an explosive wicketkeeper-batsman known for his aggressive stroke play in the middle overs. Jitesh has impressed in his three IPL seasons, maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 151. While his recent appearances in the Indian T20I squad haven’t been as impactful, his destructive batting in the IPL makes him a highly sought-after player.
PBKS could be banking on the possibility of getting Jitesh back at a price lower than INR 14 crores through RTM. Given his consistent performances and the lack of Indian players with his skill set, it’s likely PBKS will target Jitesh during the auction, hoping to re-sign him at a reasonable price.
3. Kagiso Rabada: The World-Class Fast Bowler
Kagiso Rabada, one of the best fast bowlers globally, is another key player that PBKS might want to bring back using an RTM card. Rabada was part of the Punjab squad for the last three seasons, costing INR 9.25 crores. In those seasons, the South African quick has taken 41 wickets in 30 games, showing his class in the shortest format of the game.
Rabada’s exceptional performances, including his role in South Africa’s strong showing at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, have elevated his stock in world cricket. PBKS, though having released him, could use their RTM card to secure his services again, knowing that Rabada’s value will only increase in the mega auction.
4. Harshal Patel: The Purple Cap Winner
Harshal Patel’s release came as a shock, given his impressive performance in the previous IPL season, where he claimed the Purple Cap with 24 wickets in 14 matches. Known for his deceptive slower balls, cutters, and skills in the death overs, Harshal was a pivotal player for Punjab. His expertise and experience as a seasoned Indian bowler make him a valuable asset for any team.
Despite being let go by PBKS, the team may well use one of their RTM cards on Harshal, especially since Indian bowlers with his level of experience and success in the death overs are scarce in the auction pool. His proven track record makes him a smart buy for any team looking to strengthen their bowling attack, and PBKS will likely make a bid to bring him back.
5. Liam Livingstone: The Versatile All-Rounder
Liam Livingstone’s explosive batting and all-round skills make him another potential RTM target for PBKS. Bought by the franchise for INR 11.5 crores in the 2022 mega auction, Livingstone had a decent stint with the team, amassing 827 runs in 30 games at an average of 33 and a striking rate of 169. He also contributed with the ball, taking 11 wickets during his tenure.
Livingstone’s recent form on the international stage has been outstanding, with remarkable performances in both ODI and T20 formats. In his last nine international innings, he scored 404 runs at an average of 67 and a strike rate of 146. Given his recent resurgence and the value he brings with both bat and ball, PBKS would be keen to use an RTM card to secure Livingstone’s services once again.
With a large purse and four RTM cards at their disposal, the Punjab Kings have the opportunity to bring back some key players they previously released. From Arshdeep Singh’s pace to Jitesh Sharma’s explosive batting, and Kagiso Rabada’s fast bowling expertise to Harshal Patel’s death-over brilliance, these players represent a mix of proven match-winners. Adding the versatile Liam Livingstone to the mix could further strengthen the Kings’ squad for IPL 2025. The RTM cards offer PBKS a chance to rebuild and reassemble a formidable side, and these five players would certainly be top candidates for them to target.
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FAQ
Which team has the largest purse for IPL 2025 auction?
Punjab Kings (PBKS) will enter the IPL 2025 auction with the largest purse of INR 110.5 crores.
How many RTM cards can PBKS use in the IPL 2025 auction?
PBKS can use up to four Right-To-Match (RTM) cards in the IPL 2025 auction.
Why did Punjab Kings release Arshdeep Singh ahead of IPL 2025?
PBKS might have released Arshdeep to try and get him back for a lower price through RTM, despite his strong performances in recent seasons.
Which players might PBKS target using their RTM cards in IPL 2025?
PBKS could target Arshdeep Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Kagiso Rabada, Harshal Patel, and Liam Livingstone through their RTM cards.
