/betbarter/media/agency_attachments/3YXcMKaocLoKtpo5Mw2o.png)
/betbarter/media/post_banners/lSPHy0DsEpnDXkVmLaOy.jpg)
Aakash-Chopra
Veteran opening batsman Aakash Chopra opines that Kings XI Punjab can establish a strong side despite releasing some big players. The Mohali-based franchise has released nine players on the retention day ahead of the upcoming mini-auction. Glenn Maxwell, Sheldon Cottrell, Krishnappa Gowtham, and Karun Nair were some of the players that the franchise decided to part ways. The franchise chose to release the explosive Australian batsman as he failed to live up to his expectations. Maxwell was one of the biggest flops in the 13th season of IPL.
Maxwell who failed to hit a single six in the 2020 edition of IPL troubled the Indian bowling attack in the twin white-ball series. He could score only 108 runs from 13 IPL matches last season. Aakash Chopra highlighted that Punjab has retained their core group of players and can also assemble a strong unit at the IPL 2021 Auction. The commentator also stated that Punjab has a large purse available and requires nine players to complete their squad.
KXIP needs overseas batsmen to strengthen their squad: Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra also pointed out that the franchise needs some overseas batsmen to complete their strong Indian batting unit. The former believe that Punjab might target Dawid Malan in the auctions. The franchise can once again go for Maxwell if he is not that expensive. Chopra also proposed several names of spin-bowling all-rounders such as Moeen Ali and Shakib Al Hasan whom the franchise can acquire. He also added that Mitchell Starc could be one player that is going to be their prime targets for the upcoming season. Punjab can again think of buying the former Australian skipper Steve Smith. The team has a healthy balance purse that can help them acquire the services of a batsman like Smith. The Australian cricketer has been a versatile batsman in domestic cricket's biggest extravaganza.
Chopra concluded the discussion by stating that Punjab will be in a fantastic position to have a good IPL Auction. Kings XI Punjab already have a robust top-order batting line-up and a few good Indian bowlers in their squad. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shami can be an excellent mix of youth and experience to their fast bowling unit. However, Punjab will undoubtedly be one of the teams to watch out for in IPL 2021 if they can strengthen their squad with overseas players.