In a recent video published on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra lauded the strengths and positives of the Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2024.

Cricket analyst Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts on the seam bowling attack of the Punjab Kings and said it is their major strength in the upcoming IPL season.

In a recent YouTube video, Chopra highlighted the versatility this duo brings to the bowling attack. “Their pace bowling unit is actually decent because they have lots of options. A good Indian fast bowler in the form of Arshdeep Singh and then Harshal Patel. So, you get death bowlers in Harshal and Arshdeep and a new-ball bowler in Arshdeep,” said Chopra.
Arshdeep Singh, a key player retained by PBKS after his impressive 17-wicket haul in IPL 2023, is joined by the big-ticket acquisition of Harshal Patel, who was picked up for a hefty ₹11.75 crore at the auction.

This combination provides PBKS with flexibility throughout the innings. Arshdeep’s ability to swing the new ball is complemented by Harshal Patel’s expertise in the death overs.

Chopra further emphasised PBKS’ strength in depth, mentioning their formidable overseas contingent. “You get three more bowlers in the form of Kagiso Rabada, Nathan Ellis, and Sam Curran, and you have Chris Woakes. So, you have a plethora of fast-bowling options. So, this team’s fast bowling is good, and we will keep it among their strengths,” Chopra observed.

Besides the impressive seam bowling squad, Chopra also praised the all-rounder opportunity of the team. “Plenty of all-rounders. You can take that as a positive. Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Chris Woakes (if they want to play him), Rishi Dhawan, and Shashank Singh—all of them bowl and bat. So they have plenty of all-rounder options and plenty of individual match winners,” he elaborated in the video. 

“The one thing that is best about the Punjab Kings is that they play an entertaining brand of cricket, and that warms your heart. I hope they really create upsets this time in the tournament,” concluded Aakash, wishing the best for Punjab.

Despite finishing eighth out of ten teams in IPL 2023, the Punjab Kings are eyeing a strong start to the new season as they open their campaign against the Delhi Capitals on March 23rd. 

Last Updated on March 20, 2024