Punjab Kings have decided to start afresh from IPL 2023. While they parted ways with Anil Kumble earlier, now, they have a change in their captain. Shikhar Dhawan has replaced Mayank Agarwal as the skipper of the team. PBKS has Jonny Bairstow as the solid opening partner for Dhawan, it would not be a surprise if the franchise releases Mayank. On that note, here, we take a look at teams that could target Mayank Agarwal if he is released by Punjab Kings for IPL 2023.
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1) Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR struggled with its opening combination for IPL 2022. While Venkatesh Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane were used as the combination at the start, the franchise tried a lot of options but could not find a stable duo at the top. Although promoting Shreyas Iyer as the opener is an option, the management could set eyes on Mayank if he is released.
The team would then have a solid option at the top of the order. Mayank himself could impact a few games on his own. He would, more often than not, give a good start to the team. Hence, that would release pressure on the middle order.
2) Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans are one of the teams that could target Mayank Agarwal if Punjab Kings releases him before IPL 2023. Wriddhiman Saha came good as Shubman Gill’s opening partner for the IPL 2022 champions. If they can somehow accommodate Matthew Wade as the wicketkeeper, GT can target Mayank as the partner for Gill.
Mayank and Gill will form a great opening combination. While Mayank can go big at the start, Gill could allow himself some time and impact the match in the middle overs. Funds are an issue but GT can target it if they plan their auction strategy wisely.
3) Royal Challengers Bangalore
RCB could be served well if they release Faf du Plessis. With that move, the franchise can have an even better aggressive partner for Virat Kohli at the top. Mayank Agarwal can be that option.
Mayank has played for RCB before and Bengaluru is his home. The fans would love it and at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mayank can be effective. Hence, RCB is on this list.
