PBKS Probable Retention List for IPL 2026: From Shreyas Iyer to Marcus Stoinis, Punjab Kings Eye Squad Stability Ahead of Mini Auction

As the IPL 2026 mini auction draws near, Punjab Kings (PBKS) will probably keep a good group of old as well as young Indian players with experience. Their hope is to continue the success of the IPL 2025. After being second-best last season PBKS is warily occupied with squad stability and pointing out the main areas for next season.

Retained Players from PBKS

As per the reports, Punjab Kings are set to retain their leader Shreyas Iyer, main quick bowler Arshdeep Singh, and all-rounders Harpreet Brar and Shashank Singh. Also, other rising domestic stars like Nehal Wadhera, Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Musheer Khan, and Suryansh Shedge are likely to get retained. From among the foreign players, Marco Jansen and Marcus Stoinis are likely to be retained for their flexibility and match-winning capability.

Releases for Budget Considerations

To increase their spending power in the auction, PBKS might let go of some top players such as Glenn Maxwell, Vishnu Vinod, Harnoor Pannu, Aaron Hardie, and Lockie Ferguson. It is anticipated that such releases will lead to a total saving of about ₹12.8 crore which will then help the franchise to carefully plan the investments in their bowling department and all-rounders' depth.

Auction Venue and Retention Deadline

The last date for IPL franchises to finalize their retained players is November 15, 2025, and the mini auction is likely to be held in mid-December, possibly outside India — with Abu Dhabi being considered as one of the potential venues.

PBKS Looking for Stability and Balance

The retention strategy reflects PBKS's determination to uphold Shreyas Iyer's captaincy and to make subtle adjustments in their squad to achieve the right balance. The management of the team intends to fuse the vigor of young Indian talents with the wisdom of international T20 stars and thus capture their first IPL trophy in 2026.