Which PBKS Players are at Risk of Being Benched Throughout IPL 2024 and Why

As the IPL 2024 season approaches, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) find themselves in a familiar position of seeking a winning formula. Despite being part of the tournament since its inception, PBKS has struggled to make a significant impact, with just one final appearance to their name and a playoff drought since 2014. With the recent auction acquisitions, PBKS seems poised to make a mark, but the competition for spots in the playing XI is fierce. Let’s delve into three PBKS players who might find themselves warming the bench throughout IPL 2024 and the reasons behind it.

Chris Woakes

Signed as a versatile backup, Chris Woakes faces stiff competition for a spot in the PBKS XI. Tasked with covering roles in both batting and bowling departments, Woakes’ utility as a bits-and-pieces all-rounder might not suffice to secure him a place on the field.

With Sam Curran and Kagiso Rabada spearheading the pace bowling attack, Woakes faces stiff competition for a spot in the playing XI against formidable backups like Nathan Ellis. Despite his well-rounded skills, it appears that he may struggle to surpass the competition, potentially consigning him to a bench role for the entirety of IPL 2024.

Sikandar Raza

Sikandar Raza (Photo Source: Twitter)

Despite consistently delivering strong performances in recent years, Sikandar Raza has struggled to secure a prominent role within the PBKS squad following his budget-friendly acquisition in 2023. Despite managing to make appearances in seven games last season, his influence on the field was somewhat constrained.

Given Liam Livingstone’s emergence as the primary finger-spinning all-rounder and the availability of backup choices such as Rilee Rossouw, Raza’s prospects for cementing a place in the playing XI appear dim. Despite his excellent recent performances, PBKS could favor other options, resulting in Raza spending much of IPL 2024 on the sidelines.

Vidwath Kaverappa

Vidwath Kaverappa (Photo Source: Twitter)

Emerging as a promising fast bowler, Vidwath Kaverappa has earned recognition for his consistent performances in domestic cricket and for India A. However, his efficacy in the shortest format remains a work in progress. While Kaverappa can contribute with the new ball, his value diminishes in the middle overs and at the death, making him a likely candidate for benchwarming.

PBKS boasts a formidable pace attack with Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel leading the charge, supported by overseas talents like Sam Curran, Kagiso Rabada, and Nathan Ellis. With the frontline pacers unlikely to be dropped easily, Kaverappa might struggle to find a place in the playing XI despite his potential as a new-ball option.

While the Punjab Kings have strengthened their squad with key acquisitions, the intense competition for spots in the playing XI means that some deserving players may find themselves relegated to bench roles throughout IPL 2024. Vidwath Kaverappa’s potential as a new-ball bowler, Chris Woakes’ all-round capabilities, and Sikandar Raza’s consistent performances might not be sufficient to secure them regular game time. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to see how PBKS manages its squad dynamics to optimize performance on the field.

Want to stay ahead in the world of cricket? Explore our comprehensive Blog Post, insightful analysis, and the latest updates on all your favorite fixtures and more at JeetBuzz News. Don’t miss out and dive into the action now!