IPL 2022: “Don’t think they have an impact player” – Sunil Gavaskar on Punjab Kings chances of winning

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Punjab Kings title hunt will have to wait as they lack impact players on their side in IPL 2022. The 15th edition of the cash-rich league will commence on March 26 (Saturday).

They are one of the few franchises to win the tournament. They came close to winning the title in 2014 but lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final despite a valiant century from Wriddhiman Saha.

Punjab have a revamped squad with a new captain in Mayank Agarwal at their disposal. But Gavaskar believes they still lack the match-winners in their ranks. On the other hand, the 72-year-old veteran believes it could work in their favour as they don’t have any expectations.

“Punjab Kings is one of those teams who are yet to win the title. This time, I don’t think they have an impact player in the team they have built. On the other hand, though, this could also benefit the side. When there are very low expectations, there is very less pressure,” Gavaskar told Sports Tak.

“I doubt that” – Sunil Gavaskar on Punjab Kings on winning IPL 2022

Punjab Kings retained just two players in Mayank and Arshdeep Singh, as they went for a complete overhaul. They bought back the likes of Shahrukh Khan and Harpreet Brar and roped in Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone and Odean Smith at the mega auction.

“When the pressure is less, the players are more free in their approach. In that aspect, I think Punjab Kings can surprise a few. Will they win the trophy? I doubt that. See, this is a T20 format and you have to be in that consistent cycle of winning,” Gavaskar added.

Punjab Kings will open their IPL 2022 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 27.