IPL 2025: 5 players who can replace Shikhar Dhawan in Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Shikhar Dhawan you have officially brought down the curtain in his nearly 14-year career with the Team India. On Saturday (August 24), the veteran left-hander took to social media to announce his retirement from international cricket, sharing an emotional video message with his fans and well-wishers around the world.

Retirement from domestic cricket and IPL

In his announcement, Dhawan made it clear that his retirement extends beyond international cricket. He also decided to retire from domestic cricket, marking the end of his 17-year association with the club. Indian Premier League (IPL). This decision marks the end of a prolific career in both international and domestic formats.

IPL career that matters

Dhawan’s journey in the IPL has been marked by significant contributions across multiple franchises. He started his IPL career with Delhi Daredevils in the first season of 2008, where he scored 340 runs in 14 matches, including four centuries. Over the years, he represented several groups, including Mumbai Indians (2009-2010) and Chargers of the Deccan (2011-2012). His most extended time was once Sunriers Hyderabad, where he played for six seasons (2013-2018) before moving on Delhi Capitals three seasons (2019-2021). His final IPL chapter was one Punjab Kingswhere he played from 2022 to 2024.

A heartfelt gift from Punjab Kings

After his retirement announcement, PBKS, Dhawan’s IPL team, paid tribute to the cricket star. The franchise shared a series of emotional posts on social media, celebrating his contributions and wishing him well in his future endeavors. They expressed their gratitude and conveyed their warmest wishes for Dhawan’s next innings in life, recognizing his incredible impact on and off the field. Chances are high that the franchise may not retain Dhawan in the 2025 schedule due to his age and fitness goals.

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5 possible replacements for Shikhar Dhawan in PBKS:

1. Rohit Sharma

• Power: Rohit Sharma He is a seasoned campaigner with extensive experience as a facilitator and leader. His record of leading Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles is a testament to his ability as a captain. Rohit’s ability to remain calm under pressure and guide his team in challenging situations is unmatched.
• Role: As an opening batsman and captain, Rohit will provide PBKS with stability at the top of the order and experienced leadership. His ability to build innings and accelerate at the right times would be crucial for PBKS.
• The reason: With Mumbai Indians likely to move on from Rohit in favor of new leadership, PBKS may grab an opportunity to deliver a proven winner. Rohit’s leadership would be the smartest PBKS need to break the drought, utilizing his vast experience and success in the IPL.

2. Kane Williamson

• Power: Kane Williamson he is known for his calm and composed leadership, coupled with his ability to stop the innings. His experience and strategic thinking make him an excellent choice for captain.
• Role: Williamson may take the role of captain and anchor for PBKS, bringing stability to the batting order. His ability to build partnerships and steer the innings in challenging situations can be invaluable.
• The reason: He spent a lot of time on the bench last season Gujarat TitansWilliamson may be looking forward to a fresh start where he can play a more important role. PBKS can see him as a captain, using his leadership skills and batting ability to lead the team towards the top. His strategic mind and knowledge can be the reason for PBKS to achieve consistent success.

3. David Warner

• Power: David Warner he is the highest scorer and one of the most successful overseas batsmen in IPL history. His aggressive style at the top of the order sets the tone for his team, and his captaincy has been praised for his brilliance.
• Role: As an opening batsman, Warner will provide explosive starts and can revive the PBKS top order. His leadership experience, including leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to the IPL title, makes him an attractive option for the captaincy.
• The reason: Given Warner’s subpar performance in IPL 2023, Delhi Capitals may release him before the 2025 auction. PBKS could capitalize on this by signing Warner, whose aggressive style and captaincy could inject new energy into the team, propelling them to challenge for the title.

4. Faf du Plessis

• Power: Faf du Plessis is a reliable and experienced batsman who delivers consistently in the IPL. His leadership in Royal Challengers Bengaluruhe has shown his ability to handle high pressure situations, even if the title has not yet been won.
• Role: Faf can act as both opener and captain, bringing stability and experience at the top of the order. His ability to play the role of anchor and step up when needed will be important for PBKS.
• The reason: If RCB decides to release Faf due to his age, PBKS may bring him in as a strong influence. His knowledge and composure could be key in guiding PBKS through difficult situations, which could lead them to their first IPL title.

5. KL Rahul

• Power: KL Rahul is known for his stylish and consistent stroke play at the top of the order. His previous experience leading the Punjab Kings and his ability to score big runs makes him a valuable asset in any IPL setup.
• Role: Rahul can reprise his role as an opener and captain, providing the team with leadership and stability. His ability to run the innings and adapt to different game situations would be important for PBKS.
• The reason: When Rahul leaves Lucknow Super Giants before the 2025 big auction as rumored, PBKS may be willing to bring him back. Given his familiarity with the franchise and his leadership skills, Rahul can work closely with management to ensure a successful campaign, avoiding the pitfalls that plagued PBKS in the past.

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