New Chandigarh: Punjab Kings will look to build on their impressive runner-up finish in the Indian Premier League 2025 as they gear up for the Indian Premier League 2026 campaign under captain Shreyas Iyer.
After falling short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in last season’s final, PBKS are still chasing their maiden IPL title but head into the new season with renewed confidence.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed the franchise, saying they are “moving in the right direction” thanks to improved leadership and smart auction decisions.
Strong start and leadership clarity
Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign at home against Gujarat Titans on March 31. With a balanced squad and better decision-making at the auction, expectations are high for another strong season.
Pathan highlighted that leadership and clarity in team-building have played a key role in PBKS’ resurgence, adding that bold calls — including releasing players like Glenn Maxwell — have strengthened the squad.
Punjab Kings full IPL 2026 schedule
- March 31: vs Gujarat Titans – New Chandigarh – 7:30 PM IST
- April 3: vs Chennai Super Kings – Chennai – 7:30 PM IST
- April 6: vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Kolkata – 7:30 PM IST
- April 11: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – New Chandigarh – 3:30 PM IST
- April 16: vs Mumbai Indians – Mumbai – 7:30 PM IST
- April 19: vs Lucknow Super Giants – New Chandigarh – 7:30 PM IST
- April 25: vs Delhi Capitals – Delhi – 3:30 PM IST
- April 28: vs Rajasthan Royals – New Chandigarh – 7:30 PM IST
- May 3: vs Gujarat Titans – Ahmedabad – 7:30 PM IST
- May 6: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – Hyderabad – 7:30 PM IST
- May 11: vs Delhi Capitals – Dharamshala – 7:30 PM IST
- May 14: vs Mumbai Indians – Dharamshala – 7:30 PM IST
- May 17: vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru – Dharamshala – 3:30 PM IST
- May 23: vs Lucknow Super Giants – Lucknow – 7:30 PM IST
High expectations after 2025 success
Punjab Kings showed significant improvement last season, reaching the final after years of inconsistency. With a settled leadership group and a more balanced squad, they are seen as strong contenders once again.
Conclusion
With momentum on their side and a clear vision under Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings will aim to go one step further in IPL 2026 and finally lift their maiden title.
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