5 Players you didn't know once played for PBKS

Punjab Kings, who were formerly known as Kings XI Punjab until 2021, remain one of the four Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, that have never held the IPL gold. Despite having some of the biggest names over the years, they've somehow managed to perfect the art of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

Their closest chance to glory came in the 2014 edition when they played brilliantly throughout the season but fell short in the summit clash against Kolkata Knight Riders. The unfortunate three-wicket loss in the final has put deep scars on the franchise and fans alike, have struggled to replicate that form since.

The 2021 rebranding to Punjab Kings was done to signal a fresh start, but the story remained similar. They finished sixth that season, losing eight out of the 14 games played. Interestingly, in that season they were one of the favourites to qualify but short of luck and some poor decisions cost them some games in the end. 

Meanwhile, some players who struggled in Punjab colours went on to shine elsewhere. Fans have forgotten them because not everyone could make the most of the opportunities given.

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Check out the top five players you didn’t know were part of PBKS:

5. Mohammad Kaif

Former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif's brief stint with Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) began in the 2010 edition and he failed to match the expectations that came with his reputation. After spending two seasons with Rajasthan Royals, Kaif was acquired by Punjab for a substantial sum of US $2,50,000 at the auction table. His tenure with Punjab was disappointing, as he managed just 28 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 93.33. Despite his experience, Kaif failed to keep his place in the playing XI and was eventually dropped from the side.

Following his forgettable stint with Punjab, Kaif moved to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he played for two seasons before bringing his IPL playing career to an end. Throughout his IPL career, he featured in 29 matches across three teams and scored just 259 runs at a strike rate of 103.60. Interestingly, the the-Allahabad-born took up a coaching, role in the cash-rich league, serving as assistant coach for Gujarat Lions in 2017 under Brad Hodge, and later joined Delhi Capitals in the same capacity for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, respectively.