IPL: 3 Expensive PBKS signings who turned out to be major flops

Punjab Kings (PBKS) had an impressive IPL 2025 season, finishing at the top of the table and making it all the way to the final. Despite their strong campaign, some of their expensive signings failed to live up to expectations. These underperformances impacted the team’s balance and could have made a difference in crucial moments of the tournament.

Here are 3 Expensive PBKS signings who turned out to be major flops:

1. Marcus Stoinis

PBKS paid ₹11 crore to buy Marcus Stoinis, which could improve their all-around options. Nevertheless, he made no noteworthy contributions with the ball and only managed 160 runs at a strike rate of 186.04 in 13 games. His total impact was restricted by his erratic form and incapacity to impact pivotal situations.

Stoinis frequently let the squad down when they needed him most, despite PBKS depending on his experience. His lackluster season was a blow to PBKS's depth and balance. His wicket ruined PBKS's efforts, particularly in the final when he was out for a 2-ball 6 when they were controlling the chase.

2. Glenn Maxwell

The ₹4.20 crore Punjab Kings homecoming for Glenn Maxwell did not go as expected.  He was supposed to bolster PBKS's middle order, however in 7 innings during the 2025 IPL, he only managed 48 runs with a strike rate of 97.95. His bowling effect was limited with just four wickets, and he lacked the explosiveness when it mattered most.  

Maxwell's inability to produce game-winning knocks reduced PBKS's scoring possibilities.  His future with PBKS or other teams is still up in the air following a finger fracture sustained late in the season.

3. Lockie Ferguson

For ₹2 crore, Lockie Ferguson joined PBKS to strengthen their pace assault, but he had a difficult season. He only claimed five wickets in four games at a high economy rate of 9.17, frequently giving up runs in the late overs and powerplay. 

The bowling unit of PBKS was under additional strain due to his inability to consistently take wickets. Finally, as PBKS scrambled for replacements, an injury halted Ferguson's IPL 2025 tournament.

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