IPL 2026 Auction: Punjab Kings will head into the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi without their head coach Ricky Ponting, who is set to miss the December 16 event due to prior broadcasting commitments
in Australia.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, Ponting-who took over as PBKS head coach last season-will remain unavailable as he is contracted with the Seven Network for the ongoing Ashes coverage. With the third Test scheduled to begin on December 17 in Adelaide, the timing makes it impossible for the former Australian captain to be present for the high-stakes auction.
In Ponting's absence, Punjab Kings are likely to be represented by skipper Shreyas Iyer, who has been named in the franchise's list of auction delegates submitted to the BCCI. Iyer, however, is currently sidelined with an injury he sustained while playing for India on October 25 during an ODI against Australia in Sydney. Despite his rehabilitation, the franchise expects him to be available for auction duties in Abu Dhabi.
As per the Cricbuzz report, "December 10 was the deadline for franchises to inform the BCCI about the names of their representatives for the auction. It is learnt from BCCI sources that Punjab Kings have included their skipper's name in the list. As per BCCI and auction guidelines, a maximum of eight team members can be present inside the auction hall, with an additional six permitted outside. "
The franchise appears confident about Iyer's availability, with Cricbuzz sources adding, "Iyer is expected to be in Abu Dhabi, barring any last-minute change of plans. "
Punjab Kings have four remaining slots to fill and are expected to be active at the auction as they attempt to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. While Ponting's presence often adds strategic heft during player bidding, PBKS will rely on their captain and support staff to steer the decision-making in what promises to be a tightly contested auction.
