PBKS playing XI for IPL 2026: Shreyas Iyer to lead, who will fill Ferguson’s void?
Punjab Kings reached the IPL 2025 final under Shreyas Iyer, marking a significant turnaround. For IPL 2026, they've bolstered their squad with Australian all-rounders Ben Dwarshuis and Cooper Connolly, aiming to strengthen their bowling and middle-order for another title challenge.
The Punjab Kings enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in IPL 2025, emerging as one of the most consistent teams of the season. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, they topped the league stage and advanced to the final, marking their first title clash after 2014. For the IPL 2026 season, Punjab Kings (PBKS) built upon a strong retained core by adding four players in the mini-auction, including Australian all-rounders Ben Dwarshuis (Rs 4.
4 crore) and Cooper Connolly (Rs 3 crore), aiming to strengthen their bowling and middle-order. Here is the Punjab Kings strongest predicted playing XI for IPL 2026: Prabhsimran Singh (WK): Prabhsimran Singh delivered a breakout performance in IPL 2025, emerging as a leading, consistent opener for Punjab Kings. He scored 549 runs in 17 matches averaging 32.
29 with a 160+ strike rate. He will continue with his opening role and wicket-keeping duties. Priyansh Arya: Priyansh Arya had a sensational debut IPL 2025 season for Punjab Kings, scoring 475 runs in 17 innings at a blistering 179.
24 strike rate, setting the record for most runs by an uncapped debutant. He will partner with Prabhsimran at top. Shreyas Iyer (C): Shreyas Iyer was acquired by Punjab Kings for a whopping Rs 26.