Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to be the busiest team at the 2022 IPL mega-auction as they have the highest purse available. Having retained just two players ahead of the 15th edition of the league, PBKS have a purse of Rs. 72 Crores for the auction. 

PBKS have kept hold of the services of Mayank Agarwal for a whopping salary of Rs. 14 Crore alongside uncapped left-arm pacer Arshseep Singh for Rs. 4 Crore. While the existing eight teams were allowed to retain upto four players, PBKS decided against doing it.   

It is widely documented that PBKS wanted to retain ex-skipper KL Rahul but the player decided against staying with the franchise. The right-handed batter spent four years with the franchise and scored more than 550 runs every year despite the team failing to make the playoffs even once. 

Following the retention announcement, Anil Kumble had spoken about PBKS’ desire to retain Rahul but declared it was his choice to leave. The Indian ODI and T20I vice-captain has now joined the Lucknow Super Giants and will lead them in their first season in the league. 

Who are Punjab Kings looking to buy? 

PBKS are looking at a massive overhaul and need to find players for almost all position. Be it an able opening partner for Mayank, a solid middle-order, or an explosive bowling attack. While Mayank is an able captaincy option, they will be looking for a new captain at the auction. 

Punjab have never won the IPL title and haven’t reached the playoffs since 2014. Hence, the current auction is extremely important for them if they want to turn around their fortunes and build a successful side for the next few years. 

List of players retained by Punjab Kings: Mayank Agarwal, Arshdeep Singh 

Total auction purse of PBKS- Rs. 72 Crore