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Punjab King’s search for a maiden IPL title was prolonged after the franchise failed to make the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season despite a bright start in IPL 2022. In the lead-up to the 16th edition of the tournament, the Punjab-based franchise replaced head coach Anil Kumble with Trevor Bayliss.
Apart from changing the head coach, Punjab Kings also axed former skipper Mayank Agarwal after his form declined considerably in the 2022 season. Veteran Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has been given the responsibility to lead the side in the forthcoming edition of the cash-rich league.
In a bid to make the playoffs for the first time since 2014, Punjab Kings broke the bank to secure the services of English all-rounder Sam Curran.
The 2022 T20 World Cup winner was bagged for a staggering INR 18.50 crore, the highest sum of money paid to a player at auction in the history of the competition. The former CSK player’s arrival is a big boost for the side as his all-round match-winning capabilities make him an invaluable asset to the team.
The team also made a shrewd signing by roping in Zimbabwe’s globetrotting all-rounder Sikandar Raza for a meagre sum of INR 50 lakh. His versatility with the ball will be vital on the Indian pitches. Although the Punjab Kings boast of a star-studded batting line-up, Jonny Bairstow’s last-minute omission will worry them a lot.
However, Punjab acted swiftly by replacing the English player with the explosive Australian opener Matthew Short. Short, who was named the Player of the Tournament of BBL 2023, will be participating in the IPL for the first time in his career.
Kagiso Rabada will miss the initial stages of the campaign due to his commitments for the national team, and his absence will be a big headache for Punjab Kings.
Even though they have been underwhelming in the previous few seasons, Punjab Kings possess a well-balanced squad, capable of going deep into the tournament. They will hope that a change in management and leadership roles will bring good fortunes in the upcoming edition of the tournament.
