The Punjab Kings (PBKS) are in a favourable position ahead of the 2025 IPL auction. With ₹110.5 crore available and 23 spots to fill, they have significant flexibility. The availability of high-profile players like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer is a boost for Punjab, giving them the opportunity to build a more stable squad for the coming seasons—a luxury they haven’t had in recent years.
At the same time, PBKS will aim to retain some of their key players from the previous season. With four capped RTM cards at their disposal, they have several options to secure their core players. Here are the top three RTM candidates for PBKS at the IPL 2025 auction:
#1 Arshdeep Singh
Although PBKS didn’t retain Arshdeep Singh in the first capped retention slab of ₹18 crore, they are likely to target him at the IPL 2025 auction. Whether he comes at a lower price will depend on the auction dynamics, but the franchise can’t afford to lose the country’s second-best T20 bowler.
Arshdeep has been in impressive form recently and is one of India’s most consistent international performers. His ability to bowl at all stages of the innings, along with his left-arm angle, makes him a highly sought-after player at the auction.
#2 Sam Curran
Sam Curran has yet to fully translate his vast potential into consistent performances in white-ball cricket, both with the bat and ball. However, he has been a key player for PBKS over the past two years, even captaining the side in Shikhar Dhawan’s absence.
Finding overseas fast-bowling all-rounders, especially ones as versatile as Curran, will be challenging at the IPL 2025 auction. PBKS may find it valuable to have someone like him in their squad, though building the team around him might not be the most strategic approach.
Curran offers the flexibility to bowl in various phases of the game and contribute with the bat. He could also be a potential captaincy candidate if PBKS are unable to secure a top Indian player for the role.
#3 Liam Livingstone
Liam Livingstone’s IPL career struggled to gain momentum, and it seemed like he had passed his peak not long ago. However, the explosive all-rounder has recently found a new spark, rediscovering his powerful hitting form, which could be valuable for multiple teams in the T20 league.
PBKS, who have worked closely with Livingstone, are well aware of the impact he can have at his best. As a bowler capable of handling various matchups and a formidable hitter who can bat in different positions, the Englishman remains one of the most versatile and dangerous players in world cricket.
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