Wed Apr 30 16:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Punjab Kings Gamble on Youth, Retaining Two Uncapped Indians for IPL 2025

**Chennai, India** – The Punjab Kings have made a surprising move ahead of the 2025 IPL season, opting to retain only two uncapped Indian players, Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh, for a combined INR 9.5 crore. This decision comes as a shock, given the franchise’s opportunity to retain high-profile international stars like Arshdeep Singh, Sam Curran, and Kagiso Rabada.

The team’s new head coach, Ricky Ponting, appears to be prioritizing a fresh start, choosing to invest in younger talent instead of established names. Shashank Singh, retained for INR 5.5 crore, impressed last season with his finishing abilities. The identity of the second retained player remains undisclosed.

In an exclusive interview with Star Sports, Prabhsimran Singh revealed that Ponting personally contacted him to express his desire for him to remain with the team. The 24-year-old opener has had a stellar 2025 season so far, boasting an impressive strike rate of 168.79. His consistent performance over the past three years, despite previously struggling for consistent playing time, has clearly impressed the new coach.

Prabhsimran, drafted by Punjab at just 18, acknowledged past frustrations at a lack of opportunities, revealing a motivational conversation with Sachin Tendulkar that helped him maintain a positive attitude. He credits his breakthrough season in 2023 and continued strong form for his current position within the team.

The Punjab Kings face a crucial match against Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday. A victory could potentially eliminate CSK from playoff contention and solidify Punjab’s position, putting them closer to reaching the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade.

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