Punjab Kings have named Mayank Agarwal as their new captain. The 31-year-old top-order batsman, who has been with the franchise since 2018, replaces KL Rahul, who has moved to the Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the IPL 2022 season.
Mayank Agarwal has previously served as the franchise’s vice-captain and even led the team for a brief period last season while Rahul was unavailable. Prior to the 2022 auction, he was one of two players retained by the franchise.
Mayank Agarwal to lead Punjab Kings
Mayank expressed his delight at being given the opportunity to lead the franchise.
“I have been at Punjab Kings since 2018 and I take a lot of pride in representing this fantastic unit. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the team. I take over this responsibility with utmost sincerity, but at the same time, I believe my job would be made easier with the talent we have at the Punjab Kings squad this season. We have some vastly experienced players in our ranks, along with many talented youngsters who are keen to grab the opportunity and run with it,” Mayank said.
“We have always taken to the field hoping to win the title and as a team we will once again work towards this goal of lifting our maiden IPL trophy. I thank the team management for entrusting me with this new role of leading the side. I look forward to the new season and the new challenges it brings with it,” Mayank added.
Anil Kumble on Mayank Agarwal
Anil Kumble, the legendary Indian cricketer and the head coach of Punjab Kings, praised Mayank as an enthusiastic player and said that with Mayank at the helm, the management is focusing on developing a young squad for the future.
“Mayank has been an integral part of the side since 2018 and of the leadership group for the last two years. The new squad we selected at the recently concluded auction has exciting young talent and outstanding experienced players. We want to create a strong foundation for the future with Mayank at the helm. He is hardworking, enthusiastic, a team player with all the attributes required of a leader. I look forward to working with him as captain and believe that he will lead this team to a successful campaign,” Kumble said.
