Aakash Chopra Questions Liam Livingstone's IPL Price Amid Performance Concerns

As the IPL season approaches, Aakash Chopra has voiced concerns over Liam Livingstone's high auction price, citing his recent performance struggles. Livingstone, who has not played for England since 2025, was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 13 crores. Chopra emphasizes that this season is a crucial opportunity for Livingstone to prove himself. Additionally, he highlights the potential for Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma to excel in the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins. With a focus on player dynamics and performance, this article delves into the upcoming IPL season's expectations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 16:10 IST

Concerns Over Livingstone's Price Tag

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has expressed skepticism regarding the high auction price of English all-rounder Liam Livingstone. Chopra remarked that the figures seem exaggerated, given Livingstone's lack of significant performance over the past few years. Despite not having played for England since the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a slump in form, Livingstone attracted a bid of Rs 13 crores from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for the upcoming season. His inclusion is expected to bolster the team's powerful batting lineup, which features players like Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

Livingstone's Recent Performance Analysis

Chopra highlighted Livingstone's inconsistent form in recent years, stating that this IPL season presents a crucial opportunity for him to prove himself. On his YouTube channel, he noted, "Liam Livingstone has mentioned issues with communication within the England setup, which may have affected his performance. Although he has been sold for a substantial amount, it’s important to recognize that his recent track record does not justify such a high price. This situation arises from market dynamics, but now he has a chance to make an impact. This is your moment, Liam Livingstone."

In the 2022 IPL season, Livingstone had a standout performance with the Punjab Kings (PBKS), accumulating 437 runs in 14 innings at an average of 36.42 and a strike rate exceeding 182, including four fifties. However, over the last three seasons, he has struggled, managing only 502 runs in 27 matches at an average of 22.81, with three fifties and a declining strike rate of over 150.

Last year, Livingstone's performance for England was disappointing, scoring just 74 runs in five T20I matches at an average of 14.80 and a strike rate of 127.58, with a top score of 43. Nevertheless, his impressive displays in the English domestic circuit and The Hundred helped him regain interest from IPL franchises ahead of the auction. He excelled in The Hundred for Birmingham Phoenix, scoring 241 runs at an average of 40.16, including a fifty, and took seven wickets. Additionally, he had a remarkable Vitality Blast season with Lancashire, amassing 260 runs at an average of 52 and a strike rate above 176, along with six wickets.

Opportunities for Kishan and Sharma

Chopra also emphasized the potential for Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma to shine in the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins, who is sidelined due to injury. He stated, "This is a significant opportunity for Abhishek Sharma to aim for a 600-700 run season. Ishan Kishan should elevate his captaincy to a level that makes him indispensable, regardless of Pat Cummins' presence."

Abhishek Sharma's Impressive Rise

The 2024 season marked a turning point for Abhishek, who scored 484 runs in 16 innings at an average of 32.27 and a strike rate exceeding 204, including three fifties and a top score of 75*. His consistent performances in T20Is have established him as the world number one T20I batter.

Kishan's Stellar Form

Ishan Kishan has been in remarkable form since leading Jharkhand to their inaugural Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title in 2025, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with 517 runs. His outstanding performances earned him a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad, where he played a pivotal role in defending the title. During the 2026 T20 WC, Kishan scored 317 runs, including three fifties, making him the team's second-highest run-scorer.

SRH acquired Ishan Kishan for Rs 14.5 crore before the IPL 2025 season, and he made an immediate impact by scoring a century on debut against Rajasthan Royals. However, he concluded the season with 354 runs from 13 innings at an average of 35.40, with his form declining after the initial success.