Last Updated: November 8, 2026 11:54 AM
Every IPL team reviews its squad carefully after a long season ends. Punjab Kings now face some tough decisions about their players. Let us explore the facts clearly and simply.
Why PBKS Want Changes
Punjab Kings reached the IPL 2025 final under captain Shreyas Iyer. They started IPL 2026 strongly but played poorly in the second half. That poor run ended their playoff hopes before the final stage.
The franchise could now make big squad changes before the auction in Goa. Releasing some players could help the team prepare for IPL 2027.
PBKS Players Likely to Be Released
Reports name five players who may leave Punjab before the mini-auction begins.
- Marcus Stoinis
PBKS signed the Australian all-rounder for Rs 11 crore in the 2025 mega auction. He scored 376 runs in 26 matches and took only 3 wickets. Azmatullah Omarzai offers a similar option, so Stoinis may become surplus.
- Nehal Wadhera
PBKS acquired the Indian batter for Rs 4.20 crore in the mega auction. He managed just 65 runs in 8 matches during IPL 2026. Poor form led the team to drop him, which raises the chance of his release.
- Lockie Ferguson
The New Zealand fast bowler played only 7 matches for Punjab in two seasons. Injuries limited him in 2025 and personal reasons affected his 2026 season. He took 6 wickets in those games, so Punjab may part ways.
- Musheer Khan
PBKS signed the uncapped Indian batter for Rs 30 lakh in the 2025 mega auction. He played just one match across the next two seasons. He may enter the auction to find a team with more playing time.
- Ben Dwarshuis
PBKS signed the Australian fast bowler for Rs 4.40 crore in the previous auction. He played one IPL 2026 match and took one wicket. Punjab already has Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, and Azmatullah Omarzai in similar roles.
What This Means for Punjab
The PBKS players likely to be released include big names and rarely used players. Some players struggled with form, injuries, or availability, while others received very few chances.
Fans should wait for the official release list before judging these reports. We will watch which PBKS players likely to be released become official names. The IPL 2027 auction in Goa will show how Punjab rebuilds.
