IPL 2025: 3 Worst Signings by Punjab Kings (PBKS)

With a redesigned squad and newfound optimism, Punjab Kings went into the 2025 Indian Premier League hoping to end their postseason streak. Targeting balance and firepower, the team made a number of audacious acquisitions during the auction.

But not every signing met expectations; some turned out to be expensive miscalculations. These underperforming players ultimately affected PBKS's consistency and campaign momentum by failing to deliver at critical times.

Here are the 3 worst signings by Punjab Kings (PBKS):

1. Lockie Ferguson

Lockie Ferguson was acquired by PBKS to strengthen their pace attack. Ferguson took five wickets in four games with a best of 2/37 and an economy of 9.17. Unfortunately, an injury he suffered in his opening over against SunRisers Hyderabad ended his campaign, leaving a big hole in the bowling order.

His early departure had a significant influence, as PBKS found it difficult to defend high totals while he was away. Ferguson had a greater impact than people like Xavier Bartlett and Azmatullah Omarzai.

2. Glenn Maxwell

For ₹4.2 crore, Glenn Maxwell returned to PBKS after a lacklustre season for RCB in IPL 2024. His poor outing continued as Maxwell only scored 48 runs at an average of 8.00 in six innings over seven games, including a golden duck against the Gujarat Titans in the first game, which set a league record for his 19th IPL duck.

His erratic batting earned him criticism and ultimately led to his removal from the playing XI, even though he claimed four wickets. Maxwell's suffering came to an end when he broke his finger playing for the PBKS nets, and the Punjab Kings team took his position for the remainder of the 2025 Indian Premier League.

3. Azmatullah Omarzai

Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai, who was signed for ₹2.4 crore, was supposed to give the bowling and batting depth. He only managed to score 38 runs in six games, though, with a best of 21* and a strike rate of 140.54.

Omarzai was underwhelming with the ball as well, taking 5 wickets at an economy rate of 10.61. The Punjab Kings team had high expectations for the Afghanistan star, but his lacklustre performance begged the question of his function and efficacy in the team.

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