Punjab Kings and its co-owner Preity Zinta have issued a warning on social media after unverified rumours involving the franchise and its players began circulating online. While neither specified the nature
of the claims, both described them as “fake” and warned that any misinformation harming individuals, the team, or the brand would not be “taken lightly”.
IPL 2026 | Schedule | Results | Orange Cap
| Purple CapPBKS began their IPL 2026 campaign in dominant fashion, remaining unbeaten in their first seven matches. However, the side has since endured a sharp mid-season slump, losing four games in a row. At one stage, PBKS looked strong favourites not only to secure a playoff berth but also to finish top of the standings. Their recent dip in form, though, has raised serious concerns.
Addressing the rumours circulating on social media, PBKS urged users against spreading “fake stories” for “cheap engagement” and initially called on “sports journalists” to verify facts before publishing such claims.
“Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone, especially ‘sports journalists’, to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction,” PBKS posted on X.
The post was later deleted and replaced with a revised version that omitted any reference to “sports journalists.”
“Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction,” the fresh post read.
Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction.
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) May 12, 2026
Zinta also addressed the issue, urging caution from all users – “including media professionals” – against amplifying unverified claims.
“There’s a difference between criticism & calculated misinformation. Healthy debate around the game is welcome, but the deliberate spread of fake narratives to damage individuals, the team, or the brand should not & will not be taken lightly. I urge everyone — including verified voices & media professionals — to exercise responsibility before amplifying unverified information. Thank you,” she posted on X.
There’s a difference between criticism & calculated misinformation. Healthy debate around the game is welcome, but the deliberate spread of fake narratives to damage individuals, the team, or the brand should not & will not be taken lightly. I urge everyone including verified… https://t.co/yeqbsTwLBd
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) May 12, 2026
PBKS are currently fourth in the IPL 2026 standings. They will next face Mumbai Indians on Thursday.
