The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have made a reasonably promising begin to their IPL 2025 marketing campaign, successful three out of their first 5 matches. They’re at present positioned sixth on the factors desk with six factors.
Nonetheless, of their earlier encounter in opposition to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 12 on the Rajiv Gandhi Worldwide Stadium, PBKS suffered a troublesome loss. Regardless of posting an enormous whole of 245 runs, they have been defeated by eight wickets, with SRH chasing down the goal with 9 balls to spare.
So as to add to their troubles, Punjab Kings have been struck by a significant setback when New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson sustained an harm simply two balls into his spell. He pulled up throughout the sixth over, clutching the world beneath his left hip. After being assessed by the physio, Ferguson was compelled to depart the sphere and didn’t return to bowl for the remainder of the match.
On Monday, April 14, forward of their match in opposition to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, April 15, in Chandigarh, Punjab Kings’ fast-bowling coach James Hopes gave an replace on Lockie Ferguson’s harm.
“Ferguson is out indefinitely, and the possibilities of having him again earlier than the tip of the match are very slim,” Hopes stated. “It looks as if he has picked up a fairly critical harm.” (as quoted by ESPNcricinfo)
With the New Zealand pacer dominated out for the rest of IPL 2025, this text explores three potential replacements that Punjab Kings may contemplate to fill the void left by Lockie Ferguson.
3 gamers PBKS can contemplate as Lockie Ferguson’s alternative for IPL 2025
#1 Mustafizur Rahman
The highest participant on the checklist is Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman, who brings a wealth of expertise in T20 cricket, together with a robust IPL report. The 29-year-old seamer, who went unsold within the 2025 mega public sale, has performed in 57 IPL matches, taking 61 wickets, along with his finest efficiency being 4/29.
Within the 2024 IPL season, Mustafizur impressed by taking 14 wickets in 9 video games for Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK). Famend for his distinctive slower balls and deadly yorkers, he has confirmed a worthwhile asset within the demise overs. With quite a lot of deliveries at his disposal, Mustafizur might be a perfect alternative for Lockie Ferguson within the Punjab Kings lineup.
#2 Jason Behrendorff
One other sturdy contender is Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff, who has constructed a stable fame by his performances in T20 leagues throughout the globe. The left-arm seamer has featured in 17 IPL matches— all for Mumbai Indians (MI)— and has taken 19 wickets. In his total T20 profession, Behrendorff brings huge expertise, having performed 168 matches and claimed 203 wickets.
Identified for his effectiveness within the powerplay, Behrendorff is especially harmful with the brand new ball as a result of his means to swing it and choose up early wickets. Moreover, he has the abilities to bowl within the demise overs, making him a reliable and versatile possibility within the shortest format of the sport.
#3 William O’Rourke
One other potential possibility Punjab Kings may contemplate is New Zealand’s rising quick bowler, William O’Rourke. Standing at 6 ft 6 inches, O’Rourke has shortly climbed the ranks in worldwide cricket, having already represented New Zealand in all three codecs.
The 23-year-old has featured in 5 T20Is, selecting up 5 wickets. Identified for his uncooked tempo and dedication to show himself on the large stage, O’Rourke might be a worthwhile addition to the PBKS squad. Not solely does he convey quick affect potential, however he may additionally function a promising long-term funding for the franchise.