Sanjay Bangar Reveals His Ideal Punjab Kings XI for IPL 2026
As the excitement for IPL 2026 builds ahead of the tournament’s expected start on March 28, former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar has shared his preferred playing XI for Punjab Kings (PBKS).
Bangar believes that the Shreyas Iyer-led side has the right balance of experienced players and young talent, making them a strong contender for the playoffs this season.
Punjab Kings finished as runners-up in IPL 2025, losing the final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite the heartbreak, the franchise retained a strong core of players and strengthened the squad with new additions during the auction.
Sanjay Bangar’s Punjab Kings Playing XI for IPL 2026
According to Bangar, Punjab Kings could field a balanced lineup featuring only three overseas players, relying heavily on Indian talent.
Bangar’s Predicted PBKS XI
- Prabhsimran Singh
- Priyansh Arya
- Shreyas Iyer (Captain)
- Nehal Wadhera
- Marcus Stoinis
- Shashank Singh
- Marco Jansen
- Harpreet Brar
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Lockie Ferguson
- Arshdeep Singh
Bangar believes this lineup provides a strong mix of aggressive batting, all-round depth, and quality pace attack.
Strong Top Order to Set the Tone
In Bangar’s lineup, Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya open the innings. Both players are known for their attacking approach during the powerplay, which can give Punjab Kings quick starts.
At No. 3, captain Shreyas Iyer anchors the innings with his consistency and leadership. The middle order includes Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, and Shashank Singh, giving the team a combination of stability and explosive finishing ability.
All-Round Depth Strengthens PBKS
Bangar also highlighted the importance of all-rounders in the modern T20 format.
- Marcus Stoinis and Marco Jansen bring valuable contributions with both bat and ball.
- Harpreet Brar provides spin options along with useful lower-order batting.
This all-round depth allows Punjab Kings to remain flexible with their strategy during matches.
Powerful Bowling Attack
The bowling lineup suggested by Bangar includes a mix of pace and spin:
- Arshdeep Singh – spearhead of the pace attack
- Lockie Ferguson – express pace option
- Yuzvendra Chahal – experienced leg spinner
- Harpreet Brar – spin support
This combination ensures Punjab Kings have wicket-taking options in both powerplay and middle overs.
Can Punjab Kings Finally Win Their First IPL Title?
Punjab Kings have often shown flashes of brilliance but have struggled to maintain consistency across seasons. After finishing as runners-up in IPL 2025, the franchise will be eager to go one step further in IPL 2026.
Bangar believes the current squad has the right balance of youth, experience, and all-round strength, making them genuine playoff contenders this year.
Conclusion
Sanjay Bangar’s predicted playing XI highlights the depth and potential within the Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2026. With a solid top order, strong all-rounders, and a powerful bowling attack, PBKS could emerge as one of the most competitive teams this season.
If the players perform to their potential, Punjab Kings may finally end their long wait for an IPL trophy.
