Kings of the Punjab have enjoyed dominance IPL 2026 The campaign currently sits at the top of the points table. under his leadership Shreyas Iyerthey created history by becoming the first franchise to go unbeaten in the first six matches of an IPL season. Their aggressive brand of cricket, coupled with strong performances from both batsmen and bowlers, made them the standout side of the tournament.
However, their perfect run has finally come to an end Rajasthan Royals made a stunning chase of 223 in the high-scoring thriller. The defeat not only halted Punjab’s winning momentum but also exposed certain concerns in their bowling unit, especially at the death. Although PBKS still remain one of the strongest contenders for the title, questions are being raised as to whether their pace attack will hold up under pressure in the crucial final stages of the tournament.
Piyush Chawla lays out the main concern for PBKS
Former India spinner Piyush Chawla Believes the biggest concern for Punjab Kings is in the form of their first wicket, Arshdeep Singh. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Chawla highlighted that Arshdeep’s inability to make early strides with the new ball has become a worrying sign for the franchise.
According to Chawla, Arshdeep is at his best when he strikes in the power play and builds pressure from the start. He noted that Punjab’s bowling unit looked more balanced and effective in matches where the left-arm pacer played with the new ball. However, those early wickets have not come consistently this season.
Chawla also mentioned that Arshdeep’s economics degree is another major consideration. Although the pacer often understands the most difficult deliveries – during the powerplay and at the death – he stressed that a premium bowler cannot run around 11 runs regularly.
“He’s known for taking wickets with the new ball and that doesn’t happen. The game (where) he takes wickets with the new ball, he ends up bowling a beautiful spell. That’s what happened against MI. But this season he’s going for almost 11 runs. And I understand that he’s playing in this tough game and still in the death bowler.” Chawla said on ESPNcricinfo.
He explained that occasional offsides are understandable in a long tournament, but when it becomes a recurring pattern, it becomes a serious concern. With the playoffs looming, Chawla believes that Punjab need to address this issue quickly if they are to retain their title.
“A game or two here and there, you can expect (he’ll do poorly), but it happens a lot. Then it’s a concern because if you look at the bigger picture — when you’re in the playoffs — that’s when you have to think about it.” Chawla added.
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A difficult season for the star player
Notably, Arshdeep has had a tough campaign with the ball this season despite Punjab’s overall success. Usually known for his composure under pressure and ability to perform at crucial stages, the left-arm seamer has struggled to maintain control in several matches.
His toughest outing came against Rajasthan Royals where he conceded 68 runs in the 4th over – the costliest of his IPL career. It was a performance that immediately stood out, especially given the match situation and Punjab’s need for strong execution at the death.
The expensive spell fueled debate over its form and effectiveness. Analysts and former players have begun to question whether Arshdeep has performed at the level expected of a leading Indian pacer in the current title-winning side.
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