Punjab Kings (PBKS) they are gearing up for another strong campaign Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026and former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar He has already shared his thoughts on the team’s ideal 11. The former batting coach of the Indian team believes that PBKS have a balanced line-up that can challenge for the playoffs this season, even if they start the matches with only three foreign players in the starting line-up.
PBKS finished runners-up in IPL 2025 after falling behind in the final Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite the heartache, the franchise retained the core of its squad and made several strategic additions in the IPL 2026 auction to further strengthen the squad.
Punjab Kings retain the core and add reinforcements in the auction
Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Punjab Kings have retained up to 21 players, expressing confidence in the squad that performed impressively last year. They added during the auction Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey and Vishal Nishad to increase their bench strength.
Bangar feels the stability and depth of the team gives them flexibility when it comes to team formations. He said the presence of quality Indian players allows PBKS to maintain a strong squad while relying less on foreign cricketers.
A speaker during a discussion Star SportsBangar expressed confidence in the team’s overall balance and ability to perform consistently throughout the season.
“I fully believe they are a very strong contender for the play-offs. This squad has so much ability that they can go in as a three-overseas XI.” Bangar said.
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Sanjay Bangar’s preferred lineup for PBKS
Bangar outlined a batting line-up that combines aggressive young talent with seasoned campaigners. He suggested that Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya should open the innings by providing the offensive starter at the top of the lineup.
Shreyas IyerExpected to lead the side, he comes in at number three to anchor the innings. Nehal Wadhera at number four, while Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis provides strength in the middle order at number five. Shashank SinghImpressed with his ability to finish the last season, he takes the sixth place in the ranks of Bangar.
“If I talk about the batting order, Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer at 3, Nehal Wadhera at 4, Marcus Stoinis at 5 and then Shashank Singh at 6. Bangar explained.
Bangar also highlighted the strength of Punjab Kings’ bowling department. He placed the South African all-rounder Marco Jansen number seven wwat followed by spin-bowling all-rounder Harpreet Brar.
Veteran leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and leads the spin attack Loki Ferguson adds speed and aggression with a new ball and death. Left arm pacer Arshdeep Singh completes the bowling department, bringing experience and consistency.
Bangar also mentioned that the team could strengthen its bowling by bringing in an additional overseas fast bowler depending on the conditions. Alternatively, the Afghan comprehensive Azmatullah Omarzai can 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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