Indian T20 League: Three Players Punjab might release ahead of 2023 edition

Punjab has consistently in finishing sixth in the points table of the  Indian T20 League in the last few years. Since 2019, they have been finishing in the same position despite continuously changing so many players every year. This year, they took the advantage of the mega auction and signed a lot of world-class players in their side. However, they couldn't change their fortunes.

Although the fans might say that a few wins here and there could have taken them to the playoffs, they still haven't made it to the top four since 2014. However, as they say, let the bygones be bygones and look to the future as these things don't matter. The franchise might be thinking on the same terms. In this listicle, we will discuss three players who might be released next year.

Three players who might be released next year

1. Nathan Ellis

The Australian medium-pacer hasn't been up to the mark since joining the team last year. In the five games, he has played, he could only pick four wickets at an average of 38.25 and a strike rate of 27. However, fans might say that his average of 98 in 2021 improved massively this year as it dropped to 18.33, but his economy rate is a big problem. Last year, the right-arm bowler conceded runs at 8.16 which is decent. However, it increased to 9.17 this time around.  Also, his variations are easily read by the batters and thus, he can be taken to the cleaners.

2. Prabhsimran Singh

The right-hander has played six games since 2019 and has scored 64 runs at an average of 10.67. This is why he has been in and out of playing XI. He has mostly played when one of the top-order batters had to miss a game due to an injury, niggle, etc. This year, they did sign him again, and he got the opportunity to play one game against Hyderabad, where Umran Malik bowled a three-wicket maiden. On the other hand, the team has found a wicketkeeper batter in the form of Jitesh Sharma. Sharma performed well and cemented his place in the lower-middle order which makes it hard for Singh to be in the team.

3. Odean Smith

The all-rounder from the West Indies blew hot and cold with the bat and ball. His match-winning innings against Bangalore (25* of 8) made it look like he would become a match-winner. However, his bowling economy (11.86) became a problem for the team which is why he was dropped after the first six games.