IPL 2024: Punjab Kings Retained & Released players
In the wake of India’s bittersweet World Cup campaign, the cricketing spotlight shifts swiftly to the impending Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Punjab Kings (PBKS), eager to clinch their maiden IPL title, faced high hopes in the previous season following significant changes in coaching and leadership. Yet, despite these alterations, PBKS fell short, tallying just 6 victories in 14 matches and missing the playoffs.
Punjab Kings haven’t engaged in player trades as the trading window closes on November 26 but were poised to drop certain players while finalizing their retention list. As a result, they have shown the door to Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Mohit Rathee, Baltej Dhanda, Raj Angad Bawa, and Shahrukh Khan.
Punjab to enter the auction with the highest funds in their kitty
As the franchise gears up for the IPL 2024 auction, strategic decisions loom large. PBKS harbors a nucleus of promising players but must revamp to compete effectively. The recent “TRADE” mechanism offered by the BCCI opens avenues for player exchanges, with rumors swirling about PBKS potentially releasing their highest-priced acquisition, Sam Curran, for a notable 18.5cr. Curran’s performance didn’t match his hefty price tag but he was retained in a surprising move.
While PBKS have retained the seasoned expertise of Shikhar Dhawan, they boast a commendable roster of Indian talents. The likes of Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, and Jitesh Sharma vie for both spots in the starting eleven within the squad. With a substantial purse in hand, Punjab Kings, currently holding good funds, stands at a pivotal juncture, poised to reshape their team dynamics.
Retained Players
| Player | Role |
| Shikhar Dhawan (C) | Batter |
| Jitesh Sharma | Batter |
| Prabhsimran Singh | Batter |
| Jonny Bairstow | Batter/WK |
| Matthew Short | Batter |
| Atharva Taide | Batter |
| Rishi Dhawan | Batter |
| Sam Curran | All-Rounder |
| Sikandar Raza | All-Rounder |
| Liam Livingstone | Batter |
| Gurnoor Singh Brar | Bowler |
| Shivam Singh | Bowler |
| Rahul Chahar | Bowler |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler |
| Harpreet Brar | Bowler |
| Vidwath Kaverappa | Bowler |
| Prashant Solanki | Bowler |
| Nathan Ellis | Bowler |
Released Players
| PlayerAll-RounderPlayer | Role |
| Bhanuka Rajapaksa | Batter |
| Mohit Rathee | All-Rounder |
| Baltej Dhanda | Bowler |
| Raj Angad Bawa | All-Rounder |
| Shahrukh Khan | Batte |
Purse Remaining
INR 29.1 Crore
