Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin he questioned bluntly Punjab Kings (PBKS) home space strategy IPL 2026suggested that the franchise’s decision to split the matches between two different stadiums may have disrupted the team’s momentum in the crucial phase of the tournament.
Punjab Kings looked like genuine playoff contenders at the start of the season after putting together an impressive unbeaten run. However, their campaign has taken a dramatic turn in recent weeks, with the side reeling off five successive defeats and falling into a must-win situation towards the business end of the league.
Ravichandran Ashwin criticizes Punjab Kings’ changing home venues
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin pointed out that some of the IPL’s most successful franchises have built their dominance around consistency at a single home venue. The veteran off-spinner also made it clear that Punjab’s struggles should not be dismissed as another disappointing season.
“Have KKR, CSK and MI, the three teams who have won the most trophies, ever changed their home venues? Look, from the outside we can say that Punjab are not doing well, but having been there personally, I know it’s wrong. We won five matches in Mohali, then we switched places and were out of the competition.” Ashwin said.
Also READ: Virat Kohli reacts after his tip helped LSG pacer Prince Yadav dismiss him in IPL 2026
Dharamsala conditions become a challenge: Ashwin
Focusing specifically on the Dharamsala pitch, Ashwin explained that batting first this season has not been straightforward. He explained that the change in location directly affected their scoring style and overall speed.
“Punjab are not playing in Mullanpur; they are playing in Dharamsala, where the wicket first is not that good. The ball is a bit low in the first half, so it will take time for them to adjust. Their batting order is less than 20-30 runs because they have to adjust. People can say that Punjabi have hit home with two strikes, but they have come after two overs,” he said. he said.
Punjab Kings are still alive in the playoff race
Despite their recent slump, Punjab Kings remain mathematically alive in the playoff race. led Shreyas Iyerthe team still has a chance to finish in the top four, but they will likely need to win both of their remaining matches. Ashwin’s comments have now sparked a fresh debate on whether IPL franchises should continue to operate from more than one home venue in the same season. While secondary pitches help extend fan engagement, critics believe the ever-changing surfaces and conditions can disrupt a team’s rhythm at the tournament’s most important stage.
Also READ: IPL 2026 (WATCH): Mitchell Marsh fails after powerful knock during LSG vs CSK clash.
