Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for another strong campaign in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026and former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar He has already shared his vision for the team’s ideal playing XI. The former batting coach of the Indian team believes that PBKS have a balanced team capable of competing for the playoffs this season, even if they start the matches with only three overseas players in the starting lineup.
PBKS finished runners-up in IPL 2025 after falling short in the final Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Despite the heartbreak, the franchise has retained its core squad and made some strategic changes in the IPL 2026 auction to further strengthen the team.
Punjab Kings retain core and add reinforcements in auction
Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Punjab Kings retained 21 players, indicating their confidence in the team that performed impressively last year. During the auction, he added Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Praveen Dubey And Vishal Nishad To increase their bench strength.
Bangar feels that the stability and depth of the team gives them flexibility when it comes to team composition. According to him, the presence of quality Indian players allows PBKS to rely less on foreign cricketers while maintaining a strong lineup.
Speaking during the discussion on star sportsBangar expressed confidence in the overall balance of the team and its ability to perform consistently throughout the season.
“I am confident that they are very strong contenders to reach the playoffs. This team has so much potential that they can field as playing eleven with three foreign players.” Bangar said.
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Sanjay Bangar’s favorite lineup for PBKS
Bangar designed a batting line-up that blends aggressive young talent with experienced campaigners. he suggested that Prabhsimran Singh And Priyansh Arya Should open the innings providing aggressive starts at the top of the order.
Shreyas IyerThe one who is expected to lead the team comes in at number three to lead the innings. Nehal Vadhera At number four, Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis provides strength in the middle order at number five. Shashank SinghBangar, who impressed with his finishing abilities last season, is slotted at number six in their lineup.
“If I talk about the batting order, it is Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer at No. 3, Nehal Wadhera at No. 4, Marcus Stoinis at No. 5 and then Shashank Singh at No. 6.” Bangar explained.
Bangar also emphasized on the strength of the bowling department of Punjab Kings. He kept the South African all-rounder marco janson Spin bowling all-rounder Harpreet Brar is at number seven.
experienced leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal While leading the spin attack lockie ferguson Adds pace and aggression with the new ball and death overs. left arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh Bringing experience and consistency completes the bowling unit.
Bangar also revealed that the team could further strengthen its bowling by including an additional foreign fast bowler depending on the conditions. Alternatively, the Afghan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai May be introduced to add balance to the side.
Sanjay Bangar’s PBKS playing XI for IPL 2026: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Johnson, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh.
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