Shikhar Dhawan Retirement: Who Will Lead Punjab Kings Now? 3 Players In Line To Become PBKS Captain

One of Team India's premier opening batters, Shikhar Dhawan, has called time on his Domestic and International cricket. The veteran southpaw has called time in his carer at the age of 38. Since Dhawan has bid farewell to both Domestics and International, a lot of questions remain on his IPL career, as there is no clarity on whether the star opener will be a part of the tournament. If the IPL 2024 season was his last, who will be leading the Punjab Kings from the upcoming 2025 season? Here are the top three choices for the PBKS who succeed Shikhar Dhawan.

Also Read: 'Mr. ICC' Shikhar Dhawan Announces Retirement From International and Domestic Cricket

Top 3 Players who could succeed Shikhar Dhawan as the Punjab Kings skipper

Since Shikhar Dhawan has announced his retirement from all formats, his future in the IPL remains a mystery as the star player has yet to address his future. If the 2024 season was Gabbar's last, the Punjab Kings have some players in the bank who could lead the franchise in the upcoming season. Take a look at the top three favourite players who could lead the team after Shikhar Dhawan.

Shikhar Dhawan was limited in the IPL 2024 season due to his injury, and two players led the franchise throughout the season. Dhawan appeared in just five matches.

Sam Curran

In Shikhar Dhawan's absence, Sam Curran effectively led the franchise in the IPL 2024 season. While the team's performance wasn't up to the mark, Curran was able to manage the pressure and also win matches. PBKS defeated top teams like the Chennai Super Kings and the 2024 Champions, the Kolkata Knight Riders. Curran can lead the team and the franchise has credible players as well. He could be the top pick for the management if Shikhar calls time in his IPL career.

Jitesh Sharma

When Sam Curran went back for national duty, India's own Jitesh Sharma stood up to the task. The keeper-batter did quite well as Punjab locked horns with the Sunrisers Hyderabad and put up a 200+ score. Even though they did not win the match, Jitesh's abilities have been on display and the PBKS could go for him if they want an Indian player to lead the side.

Jonny Bairstow

Bairstow's capacity as an opening batter and stumper can help the Punjab Kings big time. The English cricketers' veteran instincts will help the side to emerge as a strong player. Bairstow could be another choice for the PBKS management if they need to make a decision on captaincy.

Also Read: Cricket Fraternity Reacts As Shikhar Dhawan Announces Retirement From Cricket

In the IPL, Shikhar Dhawan has been a part of various franchises, like the Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals and the Deccan Chargers. He is a classified legend in the league, who has played 222 matches and scored 6769 runs, which includes two tons and 51 half-centuries.