punjab kings has enjoyed a dominance ipl 2026 The campaign is currently on top of the points table. Under the leadership of Shreyas IyerThey created history by becoming the first franchise to remain unbeaten in their first six matches of the IPL season. Their aggressive brand of cricket, coupled with strong performances from both batsmen and bowlers, made them the standout side of the tournament.
However, their ideal period finally came to an end Rajasthan Royals A spectacular chase of 223 in a high-scoring thriller. The defeat not only halted Punjab’s winning momentum but also highlighted some concerns with their bowling unit, especially during the death overs. While PBKS still remains one of the strongest contenders for the title, questions are now being raised whether their pace attack can withstand the pressure in the crucial final stages of the tournament.
Piyush Chawla reveals big concern for PBKS
Former Indian spinner Piyush Chawla He believes that the biggest concern for Punjab Kings is the form of their leading fast bowler. Arshdeep Singh. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Chawla highlighted that Arshdeep’s inability to find early success with the new ball has become a worrying sign for the franchise.
According to Chawla, Arshdeep is at his best when he attacks in the powerplay and creates pressure right from the start. He pointed out that in those matches where the left-arm fast bowler has performed well with the new ball, Punjab’s bowling unit has looked much more balanced and effective. However, the early wickets have not been consistent this season.
Chawla also said that Arshdeep’s economy rate has been another big issue. Despite understanding that the fast bowler often bowls the toughest overs – during the powerplay and in the death overs – he stressed that a premium bowler cannot regularly concede runs at a rate of around 11 runs per over.
“He is someone who is known to take wickets with the new ball, and that is not happening. Sports [where] He takes wickets with the new ball, he bowls brilliantly. This is what happened against MI. But this season, he is averaging around 11 runs per over. And I understand he bowls tough overs in the powerplay and then in the death overs, but still he is your premium bowler. Chawla said on ESPNcricinfo.
He explained that occasional off-game play is understandable in a long tournament, but when it starts happening repeatedly, it becomes a serious concern. With the playoffs approaching, Chawla believes Punjab must address the issue immediately if they want to retain their title.
“A game or two here and there, you can expect [him to do badly]But this is happening most of the time. Then it is a matter of concern, because if you look at the bigger picture – when you are going into the playoffs – you have to think about it,” Added Chawla.
See also: IPL 2026 – Priyansh Arya’s powerful six injures a fan in the stands during PBKS vs RR match
Challenging season for star player
Notably, Arshdeep has faced a tough campaign with the ball this season despite Punjab’s overall success. The left-arm fast bowler, usually known for his calmness under pressure and ability to perform well at crucial stages, has struggled to maintain control in many matches.
His toughest innings came against Rajasthan Royals, where he conceded 68 runs in his four-over spell – the most expensive spell of his IPL career. It was a performance that immediately caught the eye, especially given the match situation and Punjab’s need for strong execution in the death overs.
Expensive spells have fueled debate over their form and effectiveness. Analysts and former players have begun to question whether Arshdeep is currently performing at the level expected from a premier Indian fast bowler in a title-chasing team.
