As the IPL 2025 season looms on the horizon, Punjab Kings (PBKS) face a significant challenge with the potential absence of three pivotal players: Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, and Kagiso Rabada. These players have been integral to PBKS’s lineup, contributing in various capacities with both bat and ball. This article delves into how their move to new teams could impact PBKS, examining their contributions, the strategic void they leave, and what this might mean for Punjab Kings’ campaign in IPL 2025.
1. Sam Curran – Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Sam Curran, who was with PBKS for the last couple of seasons, has been a significant asset due to his dual ability with bat and ball. His price tag of INR 18.5 crore made him one of the most expensive players in IPL history, reflecting his value to the team. Curran’s performances in IPL 2023 and 2024, although not always consistent, included critical moments where his all-round capabilities turned matches in PBKS’s favor. His record with PBKS includes 276 runs and 10 wickets in 2023, showcasing his versatility.
Curran’s departure to CSK means PBKS now need to find an all-rounder who can manage both the death overs with the ball and provide explosive finishes with the bat. His absence will be felt in the middle order, where his ability to change gears was crucial. Moreover, his bowling at the death, though sometimes expensive, was vital for breaking partnerships.
PBKS might need to rethink their strategy, focusing more on developing or acquiring players who can replicate Curran’s role. This could mean looking at young Indian all-rounders or international talents who have shown promise in similar roles. The team’s balance could shift, potentially making them weaker in crunch situations where Curran’s experience could have made a difference.
2. Liam Livingstone – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Liam Livingstone’s move to RCB is another blow to PBKS. Known for his explosive batting, especially against spin, Livingstone has had standout performances in the IPL, including a strike rate of 160 in IPL 2023. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs was a luxury PBKS enjoyed, often turning games around with quickfire innings.
Without Livingstone, PBKS’s middle order loses a significant power-hitter. The team will need to scout for players with similar aggressive batting styles to maintain their batting depth. Livingstone also contributed part-time with the ball, offering an off-spin option that was useful in varied conditions. His absence might push PBKS to look for a specialist spinner or another all-rounder to fill this dual role.
PBKS might lean towards players who can bat in the middle to late overs with a high strike rate or look into the IPL auction for replacements who can match or exceed Livingstone’s impact. This could involve a strategic shift towards younger or less experienced players who might be groomed into similar roles, which carries its own set of risks and rewards.
3. Kagiso Rabada – Gujarat Titans
Kagiso Rabada, one of the world’s premier fast bowlers, has been a cornerstone of PBKS’s bowling attack. His ability to take wickets in crucial stages, particularly with the new ball, has been invaluable. Rabada’s performance in IPL 2023 included 11 wickets, and although his 2024 season was less consistent, his presence was always a threat to opposing teams.
Losing Rabada means PBKS must find a bowler who can not only replicate his wicket-taking ability but also manage the new ball effectively. His departure could lead to a reshuffling of the bowling strategy, possibly over-relying on other bowlers like Arshdeep Singh, who, while excellent, might need support to maintain pressure throughout the innings.
PBKS might need to invest in strengthening their pace bowling department during the auction, looking for bowlers who can handle the pressure of opening the bowling or bowling at critical stages. This might also mean relying more on Indian pacers or scouting for international talent that can adapt quickly to the IPL conditions.
The departure of Sam Curran to CSK, Liam Livingstone to RCB, and Kagiso Rabada to Gujarat Titans poses a significant strategic overhaul for Punjab Kings. Each of these players brought unique skills that were pivotal in different aspects of the game. PBKS will have to navigate through this transition by potentially rebuilding their team around new or existing players who can cover these roles.
The team’s approach in the IPL 2025 auction will be crucial, focusing on acquiring players who can not only fill these gaps but also bring new dimensions to the team’s playing style. While this might initially weaken their lineup, it could also be an opportunity for PBKS to evolve, introducing fresh talent that might lead them to new heights in the IPL. As they adapt to this new reality, the true test will be how well PBKS can maintain their competitive edge in one of the world’s toughest T20 leagues.
