punjab kings Has performed tremendously in ipl 2025 season and now preparing for the upcoming ipl 2026 auctionFranchises face important decisions regarding player retention, particularly focusing on which overseas players to retain in order to maintain a competitive edge. Among the international stars in the squad, three foreign players have emerged as strong candidates to remain in the squad due to their consistent and impressive performances during IPL 2025.
Punjab Kings’ remarkable IPL 2025 campaign
Punjab Kings performed remarkably in IPL 2025 and made the final for the first time in 11 years. led by Shreyas Iyer and guided by coach ricky pontingPBKS achieved a historic season with a strong winning record, winning 10 out of their 17 matches. This was the most wins for the franchise in a single IPL season, underscoring their dominance both at home and on the road. They progressed through tough qualifiers and reached the finals, showing the resilience and depth in their team. The team’s success was bolstered by significant contributions from notable players in the batting and bowling departments, which included a mix of emerging and experienced talent from both Indian and overseas players.
This exceptional performance has positioned Punjab Kings as serious contenders for the IPL 2026 title, with the management looking to retain key performers to build a strong foundation. The strategy focuses on securing game-changing foreign players who can perform consistently under pressure and provide balance to the team.
PBKS may retain 3 foreign players ahead of IPL 2026 auction
1. Marco Jansson
South African left arm fast bowler, marco jansonHas been one of the most effective foreign players for PBKS in IPL 2025. In 14 matches, Jensen took 16 wickets at an average of 27.12 with an economy rate of 9.20. His useful hitting lower down the order (scoring 75 runs at a strike rate of 119.04) along with his ability to bowl tightly in the powerplay and death overs make him a valuable all-round asset. His consistent wicket-taking ability coupled with his control in pressure situations marks him as a prime retention candidate to strengthen the bowling attack.
Also read: Chennai Super Kings: CSK may retain 3 foreign players ahead of IPL 2026 auction
2. Josh Inglis
Australian wicketkeeper-batsman josh inglis Has made a strong impression in IPL 2025 with his aggressive style and reliability behind the stumps. Inglis scored 278 runs in 11 innings at an impressive average of 162.57, including a top score of 73. His skill at the top or middle order provides aggressive starts and stabilizes the innings when needed. Furthermore, his wicket-keeping skills add vital balance to the team combination, making him indispensable to PBKS’s future plans.
3. Azmatullah Omarzai
Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai There has been excellent contribution with both bat and ball. In 9 matches, he scored 57 runs at an average of 14.25 and a strike rate of 139.02, providing explosive hitting in the lower order. His bowling has been even more impressive, taking 8 wickets at an average of 34.87 and a decent strike rate of 20.2. Umarzai’s versatility as a medium-pacer and his ability to provide breakthroughs adds depth and variety to the squad, making him a sensible retention option as an overseas all-rounder who can strengthen the balance of the team.
It is expected that Punjab Kings will focus on retaining these three foreign players due to their all-round abilities, consistency and match-winning ability. His retention will allow PBKS to maintain their competitive edge while strategizing their IPL 2026 auction to complement these core assets with quality Indian talent and additional overseas players.
Also read: Kolkata Knight Riders: KKR may retain 3 foreign players before IPL 2026 auction
