5 players PBKS might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction

5 players PBKS might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction. (Photo Source: IPL/X)

As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, Punjab Kings will be looking to make strategic decisions to fine-tune their squad. After an impressive 2025 season, where the team reached the final for the first time in a decade under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy and Ricky Ponting’s stewardship, the franchise is keen to build on that momentum.

While the core of the team is expected to be retained, management might look to release certain players who underperformed, struggled with injuries, or did not fit into the team’s long-term plans. This would not only help free up funds but also provide flexibility to target new additions in the auction. 

5 players PBKS might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction Lockie Ferguson Lockie-Ferguson. (Photo source: X/IPL)

New Zealand's ace pacer Lockie Ferguson has been a genuine threat in every tournament he has featured in. In the IPL, he has had stints with Kolkata Knight Riders, Rising Pune Supergiant, and Gujarat Titans, showcasing his wicket-taking ability even in limited opportunities.

This season with Punjab Kings, Ferguson managed five wickets in three innings with an economy of 9.16 before a leg injury ruled him out . While his career has been hampered by injuries, his ability to generate match-turning pace is undeniable. PBKS can think of releasing him ahead of IPL 2026.

Vijaykumar Vyshak Vijaykumar-Vyshak. (Photo Source: X/IPL)

Karnataka pacer Vijaykumar Vyshak has had a steady domestic career so far. With over 41 T20 matches under his belt, he has claimed 51 wickets at an average of 25.01, with a best of 3/5, and he has shown his skills in the IPL as well. In the 2025 season, he played five matches for Punjab Kings and picked up four wickets

If PBKS decides to release Vyshak ahead of the 2026 auction, he could find a new home where he gets a fresh start. His domestic form, along with his ability to bowl in powerplay and death overs, makes him an attractive option for franchises looking for a young, hungry pacer who can contribute with the ball and add depth to the lower-order batting. 

Vishnu Vinod Vishnu Vinod. (Photo Source: Twitter)

The experienced wicketkeeper-batter from Kerala, Vishnu Vinod, has had a long domestic career. He  has scored 1620 T20 runs at an average of 31.15, including a century and eight fifties. However, his IPL career has been less fruitful. In 2025, he did not get a game for the Punjab Kings.

If PBKS release him ahead of the 2026 auction, Vinod could attract interest from teams seeking a backup wicketkeeper or a flexible middle-order option. His aggressive style can turn games in T20s, and in the right setup, he could provide valuable contributions.

Yash Thakur Yash Thakur (Photo Source: Twitter)

Vidarbha's right-arm medium pacer, Yash Thakur, was bought by Punjab Kings for INR 1.6 crore in 2025. Thakur showed moments of his talent but struggled to get opportunities, taking one wicket in two games. Overall, in 21 IPL matches in three years, he has bagged 25 wickets at an economy of 10.42.

Thakur made his IPL debut with Lucknow Super Giants in 2023, grabbing headlines with 13 wickets in nine games. With the ability to bowl deceptive slower balls and accurate yorkers, he can also contribute lower down the order. On the domestic front, Thakur has been a crucial bowler for Vidarbha, taking 86 wickets in 29 first-class matches. However, PBLS can look ahead of Thakur for he upcoming season and release ahead of the mini-auction.

Glenn Maxwell Glenn Maxwell wicket celebration (Source: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Star Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell might be on his way out of Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL 2026 auction following a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign. PBKS had roped in Maxwell for INR 4.2 crore during the mega auction, expecting him to provide the firepower. However, the 36-year-old could manage only 48 runs and four wickets in seven matches before being ruled out due to a broken finger.

His last best season came in IPL 2023 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he scored 400 runs at a strike rate of 183.48. Despite his abilities as a hard-hitting batter, handy off-spinner, and exceptional fielder, his poor form over the years in the tournaments has been a concern. Given his underwhelming performance, PBKS might consider releasing Maxwell to free up funds and strengthen other areas of their squad ahead of IPL 2026.