The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have made some bold moves in the IPL 2025 mega auction, aiming to build a squad capable of securing their maiden IPL title. With a massive budget of Rs 110.50 crore, PBKS secured three of the five most expensive players in the auction.
Iyer’s experience as a captain in previous IPL editions makes him a valuable asset. His ability to anchor the innings and guide young players is crucial for PBKS. With Maxwell and Stoinis in the lineup, PBKS boasts two of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket. Both can shift momentum with quick runs and chip in with crucial overs. A mix of experienced pacers (Arshdeep, Jansen, Vyshak) and world-class spinners (Chahal) ensures flexibility. The presence of Maxwell as a spin-bowling option further strengthens the unit. Let’s take a detailed look at their strongest playing XI for the upcoming season.
PBKS Strongest Playing XI for IPL 2025
- Josh Inglis (WK)
The Australian wicketkeeper-batsman was signed for Rs 2.60 crore. Making his IPL debut in 2025, Inglis brings explosive batting and solid wicketkeeping skills.
- Prabhsimran Singh
Retained for Rs 4 crore after strong performances in the last two IPL seasons. Scored 358 runs in IPL 2023 and 334 runs in IPL 2024, proving his consistency at the top order.
- Shreyas Iyer (C)
Signed for a whopping Rs 26.75 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL 2025. A seasoned campaigner with 3127 runs in 116 IPL matches. Expected to lead PBKS and stabilize the middle order.
- Glenn Maxwell
Acquired for Rs 4.20 crore, marking his third stint with PBKS. Brings versatility with his all-round skills—2771 IPL runs and 37 wickets. Known for his explosive batting and handy off-spin bowling.
- Marcus Stoinis
Bought for Rs 11 crore after being released by LSG. A hard-hitting all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. . Stoinis is a very good addition to the PBKS team, as apart from his batting, he can win matches with the ball in his hand as well.
- Shashank Singh
The 33-year-old right-handed batter had an impressive run in IPL 2024, scoring 354 runs. The new team management will be counting on him to carry forward his strong form into the next season as well. He retained for Rs 5 crore after an impressive IPL 2024 performance. Scored 354 runs last season and is a promising middle-order batter.
- Nehal Wadhera
Snatched from MI for Rs 4.20 crore. A fearless middle-order batter who has shown glimpses of match-winning abilities.
- Marco Jansen
South African pace sensation secured for Rs 7 crore. Has played 21 IPL matches and taken 20 wickets, adding depth to the bowling unit.
- Arshdeep Singh
Retained using the RTM (Right to Match) card for Rs 18 crore. India’s second-most successful T20I bowler with 76 IPL wickets.
- Yuzvendra Chahal
Signed for Rs 18 crore to lead the spin department. The highest wicket-taker in IPL history with 205 wickets. In 160 matches played so far in the cash-rich league, he has 205 wickets to his name.
- Vijaykumar Vyshak
Uncapped Indian pacer Vijaykumar Vyshak has showcased impressive skills in T20 cricket, taking 42 wickets in 32 matches so far. He also had a stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, where he made an impact by claiming 13 wickets in 11 matches.
PBKS has assembled a well-balanced squad for IPL 2025, blending experienced international stars with promising Indian talents. With Shreyas Iyer at the helm, an explosive middle order, and a strong bowling attack, PBKS fans have high hopes for their maiden IPL title. However, addressing potential weaknesses in death bowling and the opening combination will be crucial to their success.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) full squad for IPL 2025
Shreyas Iyer (c), Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Shashank Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur, Marco Jansen, Josh Inglis, Lockie Ferguson, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Pannu, Kuldeep Sen, Priyansh Arya, Aaron Hardie, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Xavier Bartlett, Pyla Avinash, Pravin Dubey, Nehal Wadhera.
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