In a significant development ahead IPL 2026 AuctionPunjab Kings (PBKS) released Wicketeeper-Bitye Josh Inglis who impressed in his Debut IPL season this year. Inglis won’t just miss the catch-list – he’s also opted not to sign up for the upcoming auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Finishing as runners-up in IPL 2025, PBKS will start the new season without one of their most impressive foreign performers from the previous campaign.
The reason Punjab Kings didn’t protect Josh Inglis
English In 2025, he enjoyed a promising debut IPL season of 278 in 2025 and an explosive strike rate of 162.57. The innings to speak of was a brilliant 73 against Mumbai Indians (MI), showcasing his finishing ability and versatility in the middle order.
However, Punjab Kings coach Ricky Ponting confirmed that he wanted Inglis removed from the catch list due to an unusual family reason.
“Josh is a terrific player. I had him as part of our squad going forward. But he won’t be available for the majority of the tournament this year.” ponting in pbks’ official statement on pbks.
“That’s why it was so impossible to keep him.”
Ponting said the decision was emotionally difficult for the team management, citing the Englishman’s strong debut season and potential as a long-term asset.
Kings of Punjab lose overseas key option but gain auction comfort
Inglis’ departure leaves pbks with two foreign slots open for IPL 2026 mini-auction. The triite-owned franchise will also enter the Auction Room, auction room for 11.5 crores, allowing them to finish the room a specialist to fill the gap left by a wicket-keeper-batsman or an Englishman.
Read: IPL 2026 Trade – Delhi Capitals delay to protect KL Rahul, prevent move to KKR
Punjab Kings now face a rebuilding challenge to strengthen their middle order. With the auction pool expected to have several international talents, PBKS could target a replacement capable of replicating the Englishman’s aggressive batting style.
Despite reaching the finals in IPL 2025, Punjab Kings underwent several adjustments before making several adjustments in the 2026 season, dropping multiple players (Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Kuldeep Sen and Praveen Dubey, Kuldeep sen and Praveen Dubey). Inglis’ absence, while unexpected, provides the franchise with flexibility to pivot strategies based on his availability and team balance requirements.
As the Pbks Abu Dhabi auction begins, all eyes will be on how their maiden and foreign slots will be used, using their maiden and foreign slots to bolster their squad for the maiden IPL title.
Read: Aakash Chopra predicts the most expensive player in IPL 2026 auction
