Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for another strong campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, and former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has already shared his vision for the team’s ideal playing XI. The former batting coach of the Indian team believes PBKS possess a balanced squad capable of competing for the playoffs this season, even if they begin matches with only three overseas players in the starting lineup.
PBKS finished as runners-up in IPL 2025 after falling short in the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite the heartbreak, the franchise has retained the core of its squad and made a few strategic additions at the IPL 2026 auction to strengthen the team further.
Punjab Kings retain core and add reinforcements at the auction
Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Punjab Kings retained as many as 21 players, signaling their confidence in the squad that performed impressively last year. During the auction, they added Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey and Vishal Nishad to enhance their bench strength.
Bangar feels the team’s stability and depth give them flexibility when it comes to team combinations. According to him, the presence of quality Indian players allows PBKS to rely less heavily on overseas cricketers while still maintaining a strong lineup.
Speaking during a discussion on Star Sports, Bangar expressed confidence in the squad’s overall balance and ability to perform consistently throughout the season.
“I have full belief that they are a very strong contender to reach the playoffs. This squad has so much ability that they can enter the ground with three overseas as a playing XI,” Bangar said.
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Sanjay Bangar’s preferred lineup for PBKS
Bangar outlined a batting order that blends aggressive young talent with experienced campaigners. He suggested that Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya should open the innings, providing an attacking start at the top of the order.
Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to lead the side, slots in at number three to anchor the innings. Nehal Wadhera follows at number four, while Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis provides power in the middle order at number five. Shashank Singh, who impressed with his finishing abilities last season, takes the number six spot in Bangar’s lineup.
“If I talk about the batting order, 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 the strength of Punjab Kings’ bowling department. He placed South African all-rounder Marco Jansen wwat number seven, followed by spin-bowling all-rounder Harpreet Brar.
Veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal leads the spin attack, while Lockie Ferguson adds pace and aggression with the new ball and at the death. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh completes the bowling unit, bringing experience and consistency.
Bangar also pointed out that the team can strengthen its bowling further by including an additional overseas fast bowler depending on conditions. Alternatively, Afghan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai could 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 Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh
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