Punjab Kings have made bold moves ahead of IPL 2025, appointing Ricky Ponting as the head coach and securing Shreyas Iyer in the auction. The Ponting-Iyer combination, which previously guided Delhi Capitals to an IPL final, is now reunited at PBKS, aiming to bring stability and success to the franchise. With a history of underwhelming seasons, Punjab has revamped its squad to create a strong balance of experience and young talent.
They have been one of the most underwhelming franchises in IPL history, consistently failing to make a lasting impact despite multiple squad overhauls. Since their only final appearance in 2014, they have struggled with inconsistency, poor squad balance, and an inability to close out crucial games. Frequent leadership changes and tactical missteps have further contributed to their inability to reach the playoffs regularly.
However, in an effort to change their fortunes, PBKS have appointed Ricky Ponting as head coach and brought in a new leader through the auction. The return of a successful coaching-captain duo that once led a team to the IPL final signals a fresh start. With a restructured squad featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young players, PBKS hope to finally break their streak of disappointment and mount a serious challenge for their maiden title.
1) Prabhsimran Singh
A mainstay at Punjab Kings since 2019, Prabhsimran Singh has proven to be a valuable asset for the franchise. The team has shown immense faith in him, and he has repaid it with explosive performances. In 34 IPL matches, he has scored 756 runs at a strike rate of over 145, including three fifties and a century, making him a vital component of PBKS’ batting lineup.
2) Vishnu Vinod (WK)
Despite limited IPL opportunities with just six matches and 56 runs, Vishnu Vinod has been making steady progress in domestic cricket. He played a key role in Kerala’s journey to the Ranji Trophy finals, showcasing his potential as a dependable wicketkeeper-batsman. PBKS will be looking at him as a promising talent capable of stepping up in crucial moments.
3) Shreyas Iyer (C)
A proven leader, Shreyas Iyer captained KKR to an IPL title in 2024 and was a marquee signing for PBKS in the mega auction. His stability at number three will be crucial for the team’s success. With 51 IPL matches under his belt, he has accumulated 1104 runs at a strike rate of over 135, including eight half-centuries, bringing both experience and composure to the lineup.
4) Glenn Maxwell
Returning to Punjab Kings, Glenn Maxwell brings his signature aggressive batting and all-round abilities. With 134 IPL matches to his name, he has amassed 2771 runs at a strike rate exceeding 150, including 18 fifties. His ability to change the course of a game with both bat and ball (37 IPL wickets) makes him an invaluable player for PBKS.
5) Marcus Stoinis
Another returning player, Marcus Stoinis adds depth to both the batting and bowling departments. Across 96 IPL matches, he has scored 1866 runs at a strike rate above 140, registering nine fifties and a century. Additionally, his 43 wickets make him a dependable all-rounder who can contribute in crucial moments.
6) Shashank Singh
After a breakthrough IPL season, Shashank Singh has cemented his place in the squad. His power-hitting ability makes him a game-changer in the middle order. In 24 IPL matches, he has scored 423 runs at a strike rate exceeding 160, including two fifties. PBKS will count on his finishing prowess to provide the late surge in their innings.
7) Marco Jansen
The tall South African pacer offers a mix of pace and bounce, which can be a game-changer in IPL conditions. In 21 IPL matches, he has picked up 20 wickets, and his height gives him an edge on bouncy tracks. His ability to chip in with the bat adds to his value as a lower-order contributor.
8) Harpreet Brar
A trusted all-rounder for PBKS, Harpreet Brar has been with the franchise for a long time. His left-arm spin has proven to be a game-changer, with 25 wickets in 41 matches at an economy of under 8. Additionally, he has contributed 233 runs with the bat, making him a versatile asset.
9) Yuzvendra Chahal
One of the most successful spinners in IPL history, Yuzvendra Chahal adds immense experience to PBKS’ bowling attack. With 160 IPL matches to his name, he has taken 205 wickets while maintaining an economy of under 8. His ability to deceive batters with his variations makes him a key wicket-taker.
10) Kuldeep Sen
A promising Indian pacer, Kuldeep Sen brings raw pace to the bowling attack. In his 12 IPL matches, he has picked up 14 wickets, proving his ability to strike at crucial junctures. PBKS will look to utilize his speed to trouble opposition batters in the middle overs.
11) Arshdeep Singh
A mainstay in Punjab Kings’ pace attack, Arshdeep Singh has been a reliable wicket-taker. In 65 IPL matches, he has claimed 76 wickets, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. His death bowling skills make him a crucial asset for PBKS, especially in tight matches.
Impact Players
12) Suryansh Shegde (While Chasing)
Yet to make his IPL debut, Suryansh Shegde has been a revelation in domestic cricket. Known for his finishing skills, he scored 131 runs in nine domestic matches at an astonishing strike rate of 252. PBKS will look to him as an X-factor in run chases.
12) Yash Thakur (While Defending a Total)
A talented pacer, Yash Thakur has already shown glimpses of his potential. In 19 IPL matches, he has taken 24 wickets, making him a dependable option when the team needs to defend totals. His ability to execute yorkers at the death will be crucial for PBKS.
Punjab Kings have assembled a well-balanced squad that boasts both experience and emerging talent. With a mix of power-hitters, all-rounders, and a strong bowling unit, PBKS looks poised to make a deep run in IPL 2025. Whether they can finally end their title drought remains to be seen, but with the squad they have built, expectations will be higher than ever.
