Punjab Kings: 5 Indian players PBKS can retain ahead of IPL 2026 auction

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is approaching a mini-auction, which is expected to take place in December 2025. After an incredibly strong performance in the previous season, culminating in a runners-up finish, Punjab Kings (PBKS) will primarily focus on maintaining the stability of their high-performing Indian core. Unlike teams looking to rebuild, PBKS needs to strategically retain players who proved their match-winning capability and leadership on their way to the final. Their retention strategy will prioritize form, leadership, and high-impact domestic talent to ensure they continue their upward trajectory while freeing up selective funds for depth and specific overseas player acquisitions.

The PBKS had a historic IPL 2025 season, achieving a Runners-up finish after topping the league table (1st position with 19 points) for the first time since 2014, eventually losing the final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The team’s success was largely driven by the aggressive batting philosophy implemented under new captain Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, which saw them successfully chase and set high scores consistently.

A key factor was the incredible emergence of Shashank Singh as a world-class finisher and the impactful bowling of new acquisition Arshdeep Singh. The combination of established Indian stars and explosive domestic talents provided the much-needed balance the franchise had sought for years. Having made the final, PBKS’s retention policy will be a strategy of continuation, rewarding performance, and building around their captain. The aim is to retain the Indian core who delivered the title charge and utilize the auction funds to shore up the bench strength and address any minor holes, particularly a consistent overseas all-rounder.

1. Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer is the team’s captain and a non-negotiable retention. Having been bought for a record-breaking sum (INR 26.75 crore) and immediately leading the team to the final in his first season, Iyer provides not only crucial middle-order stability but also the successful leadership that PBKS has long craved. Retaining him is paramount for continuity, maintaining the aggressive team culture, and ensuring their batting core remains intact.

2. Arshdeep Singh

The premier left-arm pacer, Arshdeep Singh, is an automatic retention due to his consistency and match-winning ability, especially in the death overs. Having been acquired for a high price (INR 18 crore), Arshdeep justified his value by leading the pace attack and featuring prominently on the wickets chart (he had taken 21 wickets in IPL 2025). His control, pace, and ability to nail yorkers under pressure make him the undisputed leader of PBKS’s Indian bowling attack.

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3. Shashank Singh

The incredible breakout star, Shashank Singh, is arguably the most valuable retention for his sheer impact and relatively modest retention price (retained for INR 5.5 crore in IPL 2025). He cemented his position as the best finisher for PBKS, with a stellar season that included three half-centuries, culminating in a valuable 61 not out in the final. His average of 50.00 and strike rate of 153.50 are proof of his clutch hitting, making him an indispensable middle-order and lower-order asset.

4. Yuzvendra Chahal

The veteran leg-spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal, remains an essential retention for his middle-overs control and wicket-taking threat. Also a high-value acquisition (INR 18 crore), Chahal ensures that PBKS has an experienced, world-class wrist-spinner to complement their pace attack and keep the run rate in check. His presence provides a psychological edge and forms a critical part of PBKS’s strategy to choke the opposition in the middle innings.

5. Prabhsimran Singh

The young, explosive opener and wicketkeeper-batter, Prabhsimran Singh, is a key strategic retention, particularly as an emerging Indian talent. Retained for INR 4 crore in IPL 2025, he has shown flashes of brilliance with his aggressive starts at the top, which are vital for PBKS’s high-octane batting strategy. Retaining him secures a domestic option for the opening slot and a backup wicketkeeper, offering long-term stability and cost-effectiveness.

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