Aakash Chopra analyzes Punjab Kings' challenges ahead of IPL 2025
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared his views on the upcoming season of IPL.
He feels the Punjab Kings (PBKS) will have a tough time in their bid to make it to the playoffs.
Despite PBKS's ninth-place finish in 2024 and their ₹26.75 crore investment to buy Shreyas Iyer, doubts linger over their ability to deliver.
"The first thing is, they have assembled a good squad, but will they perform? Chopra questioned in a video on his YouTube channel.
Performance struggles
PBKS's inconsistent performance: A recurring issue
Chopra also emphasized on the inconsistent nature of PBKS over the years.
He said that while they play an entertaining brand of cricket, they tend to start poorly and finish strong, only to fall short in crucial moments.
"The squad is never that bad...they lose continuously at the start, begin winning continuously in the end, and then they just fall short," he said.
This inconsistency could be a major challenge for Iyer as captain in IPL 2025.
Batting concerns
PBKS's batting depth questioned ahead of IPL 2025
Chopra also raised concerns over PBKS's batting lineup, noting that there are no big Indian batters other than Iyer.
He pointed out that players like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh still need to prove their consistency.
"Shreyas Iyer is your rockstar Indian batter, but who apart from him? Only Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh are seen," he said.
This lack of depth could be a challenge for the team in IPL 2025.
Bowling concerns
PBKS's spin-bowling options need strengthening
Chopra highlighted PBKS's lack of spin depth beyond Yuzvendra Chahal.
While acknowledging Harpreet Brar's effective spells in the IPL, he noted that Brar isn't a reliable four-over option.
This could be another challenge for Iyer as captain, especially when you consider the team's overall bowling strategy and match conditions.
Leadership change
PBKS's new leadership duo: Iyer and Ponting
Punjab Kings have revamped their setup for IPL 2025, appointing Shreyas Iyer as captain and Ricky Ponting as head coach.
This marks their second IPL collaboration after previously working together at Delhi Capitals.
The franchise hopes this leadership duo will provide the stability and direction that has been lacking in past seasons.
Team strength
PBKS's explosive middle order and bowling attack
Despite concerns about batting depth, PBKS boasts one of the league's most explosive middle orders.
Shreyas Iyer provides stability at No. 3, while Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Inglis add immense firepower.
On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh leads with his death-over skills, while Chahal's addition brings a world-class spin option to their lineup.