The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have pressed the reset button-but only lightly-as they enter the IPL 2026 mini auction with renewed ambition and the confidence of a side that finally cracked the code last season.
After reaching the IPL 2025 final-their first summit clash in over a decade and only the second in franchise history-PBKS have clearly decided that stability is the ingredient worth banking on. Under the calm, tactical leadership of Shreyas Iyer, the franchise stitched together a campaign admired for its balance, discipline, and tactical innovations, making them one of the most watchable sides last year.
Now, ahead of the December 16 mini auction in Abu Dhabi, the Kings have drafted and submitted their final list of retentions and releases. As per the deadline on November 15, PBKS opted for continuity, retaining a massive core of 20 players. The franchise enters the auction with a remaining purse of Rs. 11.50 crore, signalling measured changes rather than sweeping moves. With the Board of Control for Cricket in India accepting the final squad lists from all 10 franchises, the countdown to the high-stakes mini auction has officially begun.
What Has Changed for PBKS This Year?
Despite finishing as runners-up last season, PBKS have not shied away from making tough decisions. The headline exit is Australian superstar Glenn Maxwell, who was released after failing to deliver the impact expected in his third stint with the franchise. The management felt the time had come to refresh certain roles despite the team's overall success, and Maxwell's departure highlights that shift.
PBKS have also let go of fellow Australians Josh Inglis and Aaron Hardie, along with Indian quick Kuldeep Sen. The departures free up overseas and pace-bowling slots the franchise might look to reinforce during the December auction. Interestingly, there were no major trade movements reported this window, with the franchise seemingly content to operate with a familiar squad template.
However, the biggest positive for Punjab Kings remains their incredibly strong retained core. The side continues with captain Shreyas Iyer, power-hitter Prabhsimran Singh, stabiliser Shashank Singh, and rising domestic talents like Nehal Wadhera, Musheer Khan, and Pyala Avinash. In the bowling unit, the trio of Arshdeep Singh, Marco Jansen, and Yuzvendra Chahal forms a potent attack, supported by Lockie Ferguson and Xavier Bartlett. The squad carries both experience and youth, ensuring PBKS enter IPL 2026 with one of the most balanced groups on paper.
PBKS Retention and Release List for IPL 2026
Retained Players
- Prabhsimran Singh
- Priyansh Arya
- Shreyas Iyer
- Shashank Singh
- Nehal Wadhera
- Marcus Stoinis
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Marco Jansen
- Harpreet Brar
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Arshdeep Singh
- Musheer Khan
- Pyala Avinash
- Harnoor Pannu
- Suryansh Shedge
- Mitchell Owen
- Xavier Bartlett
- Lockie Ferguson
- Vyshak Vijaykumar
- Yash Thakur
- Vishnu Vinod
Released Players (5)
- Glenn Maxwell
- Josh Inglis
- Aaron Hardie
- Kuldeep Sen
- Praveen Dubey
Punjab Kings reached the IPL 2025 final and have chosen continuity with targeted changes ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction in Abu Dhabi. For auction updates and trade news, keep an eye on official IPL announcements.
