The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have finalised their squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season following the conclusion of the mini auction in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The franchise, which reached the IPL 2025 final under captain Shreyas Iyer, opted for strategic additions to complement a largely retained core.
At the IPL 2026 auction, the Kings secured promising Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly for ₹3 crore. Connolly, known for left-handed batting and slow left-arm orthodox bowling, was pursued by other teams before PBKS won the bidding. The franchise also added Dutch pacer Ben Dwarshuis for ₹4.40 crore, enhancing their bowling options. In addition, Vishal Nishad and Pravin Dubey were acquired for ₹30 lakh each, bolstering depth in domestic talent.
Punjab Kings retained most of their previous squad, including stalwarts such as Shreyas Iyer (captain), Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and all-round talents like Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Owen. The bowling unit continues to feature pacers Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson and spin specialist Yuzvendra Chahal, among others.
The IPL 2026 season is expected to test the team’s balance and strategy as they aim to translate last season’s strong performance into a title challenge. PBKS head into the new campaign with a mix of experienced internationals and promising Indian players ready to make an impact.