IPL 2026: Punjab Kings Retained And Released Players List

Punjab Kings (PBKS) head into the IPL 2026 mini-auction with the same competitive spine that took them to the IPL 2025 final, preferring continuity over chaos.

After a promising season under Shreyas Iyer, they’ve retained 21 players, showcasing faith in their core talent. The franchise enters the auction with a modest ₹ 11.50 crore in their purse, meaning their next buys must be highly targeted.

Also Read: All Official Trades And Released Players Revealed Ahead Of Mini-Auction

Strategic Core Retained by PBKS

PBKS have locked down a strong and balanced group. Leading the way is Shreyas Iyer, retained at ₹ 26.75 crore, who remains the heartbeat of their batting. They’ve also kept seasoned campaigners like Marcus Stoinis, and essential game-changers such as Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal, both retained for ₹ 18 crore each.

Emerging stars are well represented too, Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Harnoor Pannu, and India’s young all-rounders feature, ensuring depth and a long-term vision.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) Released Players

In a calculated move, PBKS have let go of several high-profile players to free up budget and slots. Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie, and Kuldeep Sen are all out of the squad.

The release of Maxwell, in particular, is notable, it underlines PBKS’ shift from big-money, inconsistent signings toward a leaner, more reliable core.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) Retained Players

21 players retained | 6 overseas | Total spent: ₹113.50 | Cap remaining: ₹11.50

Arshdeep Singh, *Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Pannu, Harpreet Brar, *Lockie Ferguson, *Marco Jansen, *Marcus Stoinis, *Mitch Owen, Musheer Khan, Nehal Wadhera, Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Shashank Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Vyshak Vijaykumar, *Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal