Aakash Chopra predicts the 4 players that 'underperforming' Punjab Kings will retain

On 30th November 2021, the IPL franchises are expected to submit the list of players that they would like to retain ahead of IPL 2022. And, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has offered his thoughts on the players that the Punjab Kings (PBKS) side will retain ahead of the mega auctions.

Chopra feels that the PBKS side has been the most underperforming side of the IPL, and added that they have not done well in the tournament for the last few years.

Chopra also said that KL Rahul is parting ways with the PBKS franchise, and as a result, the Punjab side should appoint Mayank Agarwal as their skipper for the upcoming season.

“It is the most underperforming team of the tournament. They have qualified the least number of times and have not done so for the last so many years. They have never won the final. If you believe reports, KL Rahul is parting ways. So if he goes, Mayank Agarwal has to be my first choice and he should be made the captain,” said Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Aiden Markram will be in PBKS’ thoughts because of his growth trajectory: Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra also added that one out of Aiden Markram or Nicholas Pooran will be retained by PBKS. However, the 43-year-old feels that Markram has the edge because of his growth trajectory. Chopra also opined that Chris Gayle is not needed by PBKS.

“I will think about one out of Markram and Nicholas Pooran. Markram will be in my thoughts because his growth trajectory is going up. Nicholas Pooran has disappointed a little. I will not retain either of them. Chris Gayle – no, not to be needed,” added Chopra.

Aakash Chopra also felt that PBKS can think about the prospect of retaining Mohammed Shami as well and opined that whether Punjab want to retain him or get him at a cheaper rate at the auction is a decision that they have to make.

Chopra said that Shahrukh Khan will be a ‘hot pick’, and concluded by stating that the likes of Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh will also be on the radar as well.

“You should think about Mohammed Shami because you will get very few Indian fast bowlers. But think about it, whether you will get him for 10-12 crores or cheaper from the marketplace.

Going towards uncapped Indians – Shahrukh Khan will be my hot pick. You might want to give him more money and retain him in the 4 crore bracket. Ravi Bishnoi – I will definitely think about him, can he or Arshdeep be retained,” concluded Chopra.