New Delhi, November 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India opener Aakash Chopra has said that releasing Arshdeep Singh would not address Punjab Kings’ bowling concerns, describing the department as the franchise’s weaker area ahead of IPL 2027.
IANS had reported on November 3 that Punjab Kings, who are reportedly frontrunners to secure Hardik Pandya’s services, could send Arshdeep to Mumbai Indians as part of a trade deal. Arshdeep has been with PBKS since IPL 2019, and his performances for the franchise helped him earn a place in the Indian team.
Chopra pointed to Arshdeep’s wicket-taking record, saying that letting him go without securing a quality replacement would not strengthen the bowling attack.
“If you have made up your mind to let go of Arshdeep, then you’re not addressing that problem. You’re not strengthening that department. Arshdeep Singh, all said and done, took 21 wickets in 17 matches in 2025 at an economy of 8.9.
“This year, he was expensive, no doubt, but he still took 14 wickets in 14 matches, with an economy over 10. But these days, when 200 is the norm, 10 is still acceptable. So, to be able to let him go, there should be enough quality bowlers to replace him as well and bowling is still their weaker suit,” Chopra said on JioStar.
He suggested that PBKS explore a trade with Gujarat Titans to strengthen their pace-bowling options. Chopra said Punjab could offer one of their middle-order batters, such as Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh or Suryansh Shedge, in exchange for a fast bowler.
“They’ve got a plethora of them, a factory of fast bowlers. Maybe an Ashok Sharma or even a Gurnoor Brar; they’ve got plenty to actually dispense with. Punjab can let go of a couple of these middle-order batters, which not all teams have the luxury of,” he said.
Chopra added that Indian lower-middle-order batters were difficult to find, while Gujarat Titans had several pace-bowling options. He urged PBKS to hold discussions with the franchise to address their bowling requirements.
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