ipl 2025 Marked an important milestone for the season Punjab Kings (PBKS)Under the able leadership of Captain Shreyas Iyer and strategic guidance from the head coach ricky pontingPBKS reached the IPL final for the first time in a decade. This impressive turnaround has created a sense of optimism for the franchise, but also ipl 2026 mini auction Imminent, a strategic squad restructuring appears inevitable. Given the ever-changing nature of T20 cricket and the dynamics of the IPL auction, PBKS may release a number of players to make room for new talent and strengthen the weak areas of the team. Here, we take a look at five players who may find themselves on the release list ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Key players likely to be released by PBKS in 2026
- lockie ferguson
lockie fergusonHis tenure with PBKS this season was marred by injuries, which limited his contributions on the field. new zealand The fast bowler could take only five wickets in four matches with an expensive economy rate of 9.16. His injury history has put his future with the franchise in further jeopardy, as consistent fitness is crucial for bowlers in the high-octane IPL.
Ferguson’s raw pace and ability to turn a match with early breakthroughs makes him an attractive prospect for many franchises, but PBKS may prefer to cut their losses to focus on more reliable options in the upcoming auction. His release will free up a slot and some salary cap space, allowing PBKS to target versatile bowlers who can perform well in the death overs and powerplay.
- vijaykumar vaishya
vijaykumar vaishyaHis inclusion in the PBKS squad was inspired by his excellent domestic record and ability to adapt to T20 cricket. However, his IPL performance in 2025 was disappointing. Playing five matches, Vishak took four wickets, but struggled with his economy – at a rate of 10.65 runs per over.
If PBKS decide to release Vishak, it may be motivated by a desire to bring in a fresh bowling option with more consistent performances or to strengthen their youth pipeline. Vishak has the skillset to bowl late overs, especially through yorkers and slower deliveries, and may attract the interest of other franchises looking to add reliable seamers in the next auction.
Also read: Delhi Capitals: DC may release 5 players before IPL 2026 auction
- Vishnu Vinod
Vishnu VinodAn experienced wicketkeeper-batsman, he failed to feature in any IPL games during 2025. With a T20 record of 1,620 runs at an average of 31.15, including one century and eight half-centuries, Vinod has aggressive batting skills that can fit in well as a team backup or middle-order option.
His absence from the PBKS playing eleven suggests a surplus in the team’s wicketkeeping options, especially with the presence of others jonny bairstow And matthew shortIf released, Vinod’s aggressive style and experience could interest teams looking for a backup or impact player capable of opening the innings in the lower middle order.
- Yash Thakur
Yash ThakurThe limited opportunities this season raise questions about his long-term status at PBKS. Despite his talent, Thakur could take only one wicket at an economy of 12.15 in the two matches. His skill set – deceptive slower balls, accurate yorkers and lower-order batting ability – makes him an asset elsewhere.
With 25 wickets in 21 IPL matches at an economy of 10.42, Thakur’s ability to adapt to different roles makes him an attractive choice for franchises looking for a reliable seam bowler. PBKS may choose to release him to make room for younger or more established fast bowlers to fill the void left in the team.
- glen maxwell
glen maxwellHis ability to be a match-winner is well recognised, but his 2025 season failed to live up to expectations. Playing only seven matches, Maxwell scored only 48 runs and managed to take four wickets, but a broken finger forced him out of the team. Despite his reputation as a powerful hitter and versatile spinner, his inconsistent form and injury concerns may influence PBKS to consider releasing Maxwell.
The franchise may prefer to use the funds from Maxwell’s release on more consistent performers to build a more balanced squad for IPL 2026. Although his all-round ability remains valuable, his current form and injuries could lead to parting ways.
As IPL 2026 approaches, the cumulative decisions on retaining and releasing players will shape the fortunes of the franchises for the coming season. The strategic release of these five players by PBKS indicates a deliberate move to refresh the squad with the aim of continued success in the next edition. The auction will undoubtedly witness a lively bidding war for some of these talents, creating excitement among cricket fans and franchise strategists alike.
Also read: Mumbai Indians: 5 players whom MI can release before IPL 2026 auction
