The IPL 2024 Auction took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 19 (Tuesday), witnessing substantial investments from various franchises. Among the teams striving to clinch their first IPL title, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are diligently working to fortify their squad for the upcoming season. With only one final appearance in the tournament's history and limited playoff entries, PBKS aim to bolster their roster despite having a nearly complete first XI similar to Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Their focus lies on filling crucial positions and refining their player acquisitions.
Harshal Patel emerged as the most expensive Indian purchase in the 2024 IPL auction, secured by PBKS for Rs 11.75 crore. Additionally, Punjab Kings successfully acquired England all-rounder Chris Woakes for Rs. 4.20 crore. Notably, Woakes, absent from IPL auction since 2021, brings substantial value to the team as a bowling all-rounder.
As the IPL approaches, let's examine PBKS's potential strongest eleven:
Opening: Shikhar Dhawan (c), Prabhsimran Singh
Shikhar Dhawan takes charge for PBKS in IPL 2024, aiming for a more impactful season after previous injury concerns. Partnering Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow or Matthew Short stand as other viable options. Prabhsimran Singh, known for his century in IPL 2023, deserves another opportunity to shine.
Middle Order: Atharva Taide, Liam Livingstone, Sikandar Raza, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sam Curran
At No. 3, Atharva Taide, a promising talent, retains a crucial role for PBKS. Sikandar Raza might step in for Bairstow at No. 4, offering stability and bowling options. Livingstone, Curran, and Sharma form the core.
Lower Order: Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Rahul Chahar
Harshal Patel, a notable purchase, strengthens PBKS's death bowling. This adds flexibility to utilise Arshdeep, Rabada, and Curran during powerplays. Rahul Chahar leads the spin department, aiming to enhance his wicket-taking abilities.
PBKS' strongest 11 post IPL 2024 auction: Shikhar Dhawan (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Atharva Taide, Liam Livingstone, Sikandar Raza, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sam Curran, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Rahul Chahar.