The Punjab Kings (PBKS) delivered a highly impressive performance in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). Led by new captain Shreyas Iyer, they finished among the top two teams and secured a spot in their second IPL final. Although they fell short of lifting the trophy, Punjab showcased their potential and will head into the next season as one of the franchises to watch.
While Shreyas and his squad have strength across most areas, there remain a few gaps that need addressing. To further bolster their lineup, PBKS may consider releasing some underperforming players, freeing up funds to compete for marquee signings in the IPL 2026 auction.
PBKS’ squad for IPL 2025 (including replacements):
Shreyas Iyer, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Pravin Dubey, Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Harnoor Singh Pannu, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Prabhsimran Singh, Glenn Maxwell, Yash Thakur, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Kuldeep Sen, Xavier Bartlett, Mitchell Owen, Kyle Jamieson (temp).
Here are three PBKS players who should be released before the IPL 2026 auction:
#1 Yuzvendra Chahal
Yuzvendra Chahal was among the most expensive acquisitions in the IPL 2025 auction, going to PBKS for ₹18 crore. However, the leg-spinner failed to deliver his best form during the season. In 14 matches, Chahal claimed just 16 wickets at an economy rate of 9.56. Shreyas Iyer often limited his overs, and his habit of tossing the ball up frequently worked against him.
At 35, he was also a liability in the field. With few wrist-spinners available in the market, continuing to invest heavily in Chahal could restrict PBKS from strengthening other areas of their squad. The franchise might consider scouting a capable domestic alternative or attempting to re-sign the veteran at a lower price.
#2 Aaron Hardie
Aaron Hardie is considered one of the most promising all-round talents globally, but he still has progress to make before consistently performing at the IPL level. The Australian has struggled against spin, and his bowling hasn’t yet matured enough to be relied upon for overs.
While his association with fellow Australian Ricky Ponting has been advantageous, PBKS will likely aim to strengthen their overseas contingent ahead of IPL 2026. With players like Azmatullah Omarzai, Marcus Stoinis, and Mitchell Owen already in the squad, the franchise may consider using Hardie’s overseas slot more strategically.
#3 Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis delivered a few impactful cameos for PBKS in IPL 2025, but questions remain over his role as a genuine all-rounder at the franchise level. His bowling has been used sparingly in recent seasons and has yet to prove consistently reliable. Although Stoinis is a valuable utility player and a capable finisher, he commands ₹11 crore of PBKS’ budget.
Considering the limited opportunities he gets with the bat, he may not offer the best value. With players like Shashank Singh and Marco Jansen already able to contribute in the lower order, signing someone like Cameron Green, who can also provide effective overs, could be a smarter move for the team.
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