NEW DELHI: With Punjab Kings (PBKS) done shopping for the highly anticipated IPL 2025, the franchise is poised to make a significant impact under the strategic leadership of their new head coach, Ricky Ponting.
Holding the largest remaining purse of INR 110.5 crore, PBKS flexed the financial muscle to assemble a well-rounded squad to compete for their elusive first IPL title.
Earlier, PBKS had retained two core players before the auction. Last season’s wonder Shashank Singh was retained for INR 5.5 crore, while Punjab Kings remain confident of Prabhsimran Singh’s batting acumen, retaining his services for INR 4 crore.
Shashank Singh, known for his ability to contribute as a middle-order power-hitter and part-time bowler, earned his retention after last season, where he single-handedly won PBKS a couple of games and played some adorable cameos on some occasions.
Retaining the young wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh has reflected PBKS’ faith in his explosive top-order potential and ability to impact games with the bat and gloves.
PBKS, earlier known as Kings XI Punjab, have had a roller-coaster journey in the IPL since their inception in 2008. Despite flashes of brilliance, such as their runner-up finish in 2014, inconsistency has been a recurring issue.
Can Ricky Ponting build a match-winning Punjab Kings squad at IPL 2025 auction?
Frequent leadership changes and inconsistent performances have hindered their title quest. The addition of Ricky Ponting as the head coach points to a more tactical and focused approach, emphasizing stability and long-term success.
Entering the auction with a mammoth INR 110.5 crore, PBKS were in an enviable position to rebuild their squad. The team was focusing on securing a consistent top-order batter, experienced finishers, and specialist bowlers, especially for the death overs.
Punjab Kings complete squad list IPL 2025:
- Shashank Singh (Retained)
- Prabhsimran Singh (Retained)
- Arshdeep Singh : 18 crore INR
- Shreyas Iyer: 26.75 crore INR
- Yuzvendra Chahal: 18 crore INR
- Marcus Stoinis: 11 crore INR
- Glenn Maxwell: 4.20 crore INR