Rohit Sharma to play for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025? Here's the update

When questioned about the possibility of Punjab Kings (PBKS) targeting Rohit Sharma in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, Sanjay Bangar chose to sidestep the issue. His cautious response left many intrigued about whether PBKS might pursue the seasoned captain. Rohit Sharma, a pivotal figure in the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) success story, led the team to five IPL titles over his tenure. However, before the start of the previous season, he was replaced as captain by Hardik Pandya. This strategic shift by the Mumbai Indians did not yield the desired results, as the team had a challenging season, ultimately finishing at the bottom of the points table after the round-robin phase.

The decision to strip Rohit of the captaincy was met with significant backlash from MI fans. The discontent was visibly expressed in the stands, with supporters frequently booing Hardik Pandya during matches, reflecting their dissatisfaction with the change in leadership. This reaction highlighted the deep connection between Rohit and the Mumbai Indians' fan base, underscoring the impact of such decisions on team morale and supporter sentiment.

As the IPL 2025 auction approaches, speculation about Rohit Sharma's future continues to stir interest, with many wondering if his next chapter might involve a move to a new franchise like Punjab Kings, given the uncertainty surrounding his role in the upcoming season. Recent reports have surfaced suggesting a rift in the Mumbai Indians (MI) dressing room between Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma. It appears Rohit was displeased with his abrupt removal as captain, a decision that has sparked speculation about his future. Some sources indicate that the legendary batter may be on the verge of leaving the Mumbai setup to join another franchise. Punjab Kings, currently without a captain, is being discussed as a potential destination for the T20 World Cup-winning Indian captain.

Sanjay Bangar, Punjab Kings' Head of Cricket Development, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that many teams would be keen to pursue Rohit Sharma in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. Bangar acknowledged that if Rohit enters the auction, he could command a significant bid given his illustrious career and recent performances. The Kings are reportedly awaiting further details about the players available before making a definitive decision on pursuing Rohit.

The potential arrival of Rohit Sharma at Punjab Kings could be a game-changer, providing the team with experienced leadership and a proven track record. As the IPL auction approaches, cricket enthusiasts are keenly watching to see if the dynamic batter will indeed find his next chapter with Punjab Kings, adding a new dimension to their squad for the forthcoming season.

"We will have to wait and watch (will Rohit head to the auction?). I played with Rohit at one point for the Deccan Chargers. From there, he has been a Mumbai boy. Yes, there was a change in direction as far as Mumbai Indians are concerned. But, it all depends on the retentions, because that is a topic which is under consideration. Once there is clarity on the retentions, then we get to know the number of players. We need to know the players that are released by the teams. Only then we will know who will come into the auctions and which is the team that will run after a particular player," former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar said in a recent interview. 

"It all depends on whether we have the money in our pocket. Because if Rohit comes into the auction, I certainly believe he is going to go for a very high price," Bangar added.