During the IPL 2025 auction, Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced stiff competition for key players but missed out on 3 significant targets. Engaging in intense bidding wars, PBKS withdrew when prices exceeded their valuations, allowing rival teams to secure the players. These decisions reflected a cautious strategy despite having a substantial budget.
3. Ishan Kishan
Ishan Kishan was one of the most contested players in the IPL 2025 auction, with teams like Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad vying for him. PBKS pursued Kishan aggressively, bidding up to INR 11 crore, but stepped back when SRH raised the bid to INR 11.25 crore. Despite the promising opportunity to acquire a skilled Indian wicketkeeper-batter, PBKS couldn’t justify the escalating price. This miss left them without a high-impact player who could have strengthened their squad.
2. Will Jacks
Punjab Kings targeted Will Jacks in the IPL 2025 auction but missed out after a competitive bidding war with Mumbai Indians (MI). MI secured Jacks for INR 5.25 crores, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opted not to use their Right-to-Match (RTM) card. Despite their substantial budget, PBKS failed to land this dynamic player, leaving a gap in their pursuit of impactful additions to their squad. This missed opportunity further highlighted their challenges in navigating the auction dynamics effectively.
1. Devon Conway
Punjab Kings pursued Devon Conway during the IPL 2025 auction, entering a fierce bidding contest with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Despite their efforts, CSK secured the talented opener for INR 6.25 crores. Missing out on Conway meant PBKS lost a versatile batter adept at tackling spin and adjusting to different game scenarios, leaving a notable gap in their lineup. This decision emphasized PBKS’s cautious approach in the auction, prioritizing budget management over acquiring a potential game-changer for their squad.
