Published By: Sayan Guha

IPL Auction: PBKS and the Right-To-Match Advantage! Here’s How They Could Strike Gold at the Auction

With the big auction days just around the corner, Punjab Kings (PBKS) enter the race with a hefty purse and four RTM cards up their sleeve. Here’s what they’re cooking up

The Indian Premier League never fails to delight, and as the 2025 mega auction approaches, both fans and franchises are vibrating with excitement. With over a thousand players competing for a position on the squads and the BCCI’s freshly increased prize of INR 120 crore, the stakes have never been higher. PBKS stands out among the ten franchises, with the biggest auction fund of INR 110.5 crore and a strategic advantage: four Right-To-Match (RTM) cards ready to be used.

But how would the Punjab Kings play their cards? Let’s look at their top three probable targets and the logic behind each move.

Starting anew but not empty-handed

It’s no surprise that PBKS, now managed by the diligent Ricky Ponting, boldly decided to retain only two players—Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh—both uncapped but possess great potential. With most of their previous roster cleared, Punjab has the opportunity to rebuild with fresh talent. Their RTM (Right to Match) cards allow them to bring back familiar names who could be game changers. Let’s discuss some key players that PBKS will be focusing on.

Arshdeep Singh: The pace ace they want back

For a side striving to improve, it’s strange that Punjab released Arshdeep Singh, one of India’s best T20 pacers and India’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is. This left-arm seamer has 64 wickets over the previous four IPL seasons, leading India’s bowling attack at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Given his track record, PBKS fans were surprised to see him let go. However, there might be a strategy at work here—Punjab may be hoping that bidding begins lower than his INR 18 crore retention price.


However, with rival teams vying for Arshdeep, PBKS may have to extend their budget to re-sign him. If the competition for Arshdeep heats up, expect them to use the RTM.

Jitesh Sharma: The keeper with the killer instinct

Jitesh Sharma should be next on the PBKS list. Jitesh, known for his aggressive style and outstanding strike rate of 151, was a key component in Punjab’s middle order last season. His rising status in Indian T20 cricket, including nine matches as a backup keeper for India, hints at his potential.


The rationale for his release may be similar to the Arshdeep strategy—Punjab may believe they can re-sign him for less than INR 14 crore. However, if his worth rises at the auction, PBKS will undoubtedly employ an RTM card.

Kagiso Rabada: The pace enforcer from South Africa

Few bowlers generate as much fear and dread as Kagiso Rabada. He’s more than just an IPL hero; he’s a worldwide T20 juggernaut who recently helped South Africa reach the final of the ICC T20 World Cup. Rabada has been a vital figure for Punjab, taking 41 wickets over the previous three seasons, and at INR 9.25 crore, he has been well worth the money.


Rabada’s worldwide appeal and penchant for breakouts make him one of the most sought-after players in the auction pool. Punjab may take out an RTM card to keep their pace arsenal stocked.

While these three are the hot favourites, don’t be surprised if PBKS throws in a surprise RTM for an all-rounder like Harshal Patel or an emerging young talent like Atharva Taide. With Ponting’s experience, PBKS may have a few aces hidden up their sleeve.