Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega-auction, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar speculated on the Punjab Kings’ potential interest in re-signing their released pacer, Arshdeep Singh. Punjab Kings recently announced their retention list, which included several significant departures, notably Arshdeep, who has been a consistent performer for the franchise over the years.
Reflecting on Arshdeep’s evolution since his debut five years ago, Sanjay Manjrekar remarked, “Punjab Kings have likely released several players to allow for greater flexibility in rebuilding their squad. Despite this, I believe they will be keen to reacquire Arshdeep Singh. There’s a noticeable difference between the Arshdeep Singh of today and the one who burst onto the scene five years ago.”
Arshdeep Singh had a commendable IPL 2024 campaign, picking up 19 wickets in 14 matches, solidifying his position as one of India’s leading T20I seamers this year. Despite his impressive track record, the pacer will enter the auction pool, leaving Punjab Kings with a tough decision.
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Sanjay Manjrekar added, “Arshdeep remains a potent threat with the new ball and is still dependable in the slog overs. Even though Punjab Kings released him, I strongly feel they will pursue him aggressively during the mega auction.”
In stark contrast to Arshdeep’s individual success, Punjab Kings had another underwhelming season in IPL 2024, finishing ninth with just five wins from 14 matches. The team has retained only two uncapped players—Shashank Singh (INR 5.5 crore) and Prabhsimran Singh (INR 4 crore)—hinting at a major squad overhaul ahead of the upcoming season.
Historically, the Punjab Kings have struggled for consistency in the IPL. They have reached the knockout stages only twice in 17 editions, with their most memorable campaign in 2014 ending in a narrow defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final.
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To bolster their prospects, Punjab Kings have revamped their coaching staff, appointing Ricky Ponting as head coach. The former Australia captain, who enjoyed a successful stint with Delhi Capitals, joins a team that retained Brad Haddin and Sunil Joshi while bringing in James Hopes as their new fast-bowling coach. The franchise now aims to rewrite its fortunes under Ponting’s leadership.
