Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 A mini-auction is coming, which is expected to take place in December 2025. After an incredibly strong performance the previous season, finishing as runners-up, Punjab Kings (PBKS) Will primarily focus on maintaining the stability of its high-performing Indian core. Unlike teams looking to rebuild, PBKS need to strategically retain players who proved their match-winning ability and leadership till the finals. Their retention strategy will prioritize form, leadership and high-impact homegrown talent to ensure they continue their upward trend while selectively freeing up money for depth and elite foreign player acquisitions.
PBKS’s IPL 2025 performance and strategic continuity
PBKS had a historic IPL 2025 season, finishing as runners-up after topping the league table (1st place with 19 points) for the first time since 2014, eventually losing in the final Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)The team’s success was largely driven by the aggressive batting philosophy implemented under the new captain Shreyas Iyer and coach ricky pontingWhich saw them successfully chase and make high scores consistently.
A major factor was the incredible emergence of Shashank Singh As a world class finisher and impressive bowling new acquisition Arshdeep SinghThe combination of established Indian stars and explosive homegrown talent provided the balance the franchise had been seeking for years. After reaching the final, PBKS’s retention policy will be one of continuity, rewarding performances and building around their captain. The aim is to retain the Indian core that led the title charge and use the auction funds to strengthen the bench strength and plug any shortfalls, especially a consistent overseas all-rounder.
PBKS may retain 5 Indian players ahead of IPL 2026 auction
1. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer Is the team captain and is a non-negotiable retention. Having been bought for a record-breaking sum (INR 26.75 crore) and immediately taking the team to the finals in his debut season, Iyer not only provides vital middle-order stability but also provides the successful leadership that PBKS has long desired. It is paramount to maintain consistency, an aggressive team culture and ensure that their batting core remains intact.
2. Arshdeep Singh
Leading left arm fast bowler, Arshdeep SinghHe is an automatic retention due to his consistency and ability to win matches, especially in the death overs. Having been bought at a high price (INR 18 crore), Arshdeep justified his price by leading the pace attack and dominating the wicket charts (he took 21 wickets in IPL 2025). His control, pace and ability to bowl yorkers under pressure makes him the undisputed leader of PBKS’s Indian bowling attack.
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3. Shashank Singh
incredible breakout star, Shashank SinghArguably the most valuable retention for his wide-ranging 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 brilliant season, which included three half-centuries, culminating with a valuable inning of 61 not out in the final. His average of 50.00 and strike rate of 153.50 is testament to his clutch hitting, making him an indispensable middle-order and lower-order asset.
4. Yuzvendra Chahal
Experienced leg spinner, Yuzvendra ChahalHis middle-overs control and wicket-taking threat remains an essential retention. Also a high-value acquisition (INR 18 crore), Chahal ensures that PBKS have an experienced, world-class wrist-spinner who will complement their pace attack and keep the run rate in check. His presence provides a psychological edge and forms a vital part of PBKS’s strategy to stifle the opposition in the middle innings.
5. Prabhsimran Singh
Young, explosive opening batsman and wicketkeeper-batsman, Prabhsimran SinghAn important strategic option is retention, especially as an emerging Indian talent. Retained for Rs 4 crore in IPL 2025, he has shown glimpses of talent with his aggressive starts at the top, which has been vital to PBKS’ high-octane batting strategy. Retaining him secures the opening slot and a home-grown option for a backup wicketkeeper, providing long-term stability and cost-effectiveness.
Also read: Chennai Super Kings: CSK may retain 5 Indian players before IPL 2026 auction
