Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has recently shared his predicted playing XII for Punjab Kings (PBKS) following the IPL 2026 auction. With only four slots to fill after retaining 21 players, Pathan’s lineup includes some exciting choices for the upcoming season.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Pathan selected Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh as the opening pair for PBKS. He then suggested Shreyas Iyer at No. 3, followed by Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis in the middle order. Pathan also expressed his confidence in young Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly, who was brought in as a replacement for Glenn Maxwell. Pathan praised Connolly’s left-handed batting style and his left-arm spin bowling, hoping for more consistency from him.
Pathan continued his lineup with the inclusion of Shashank Singh, who had a brilliant season in 2025 for PBKS. At No. 8, Pathan backed in-form South African all-rounder Marco Jansen, and suggested options like Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, or Yash Thakur based on pitch conditions. He completed the XI with seamers Lockie Ferguson and Arshdeep Singh.
For the Impact Player slot, Pathan chose veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, the all-time leading wicket-taker in the IPL. With 221 wickets in 174 matches, Chahal is expected to play a crucial role for PBKS in the upcoming season.
In summary, Irfan Pathan’s Punjab Kings (PBKS) playing XII for IPL 2026 includes Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar/Vijaykumar Vishak/Yash Thakur, Lockie Ferguson, and Arshdeep Singh. The Impact Player chosen by Pathan is Yuzvendra Chahal.
Overall, Pathan’s lineup showcases a good mix of experience and youth, with a focus on consistency and performance for PBKS in the upcoming IPL season.
