IPL 2026: PBKS' campaign falling apart amid losses, pressure and controversies

For the first seven matches of the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026), Punjab Kings (PBKS) looked like a side finally ready to bury nearly two decades of heartbreak. After years of inconsistency and unfulfilled promise, PBKS appeared transformed under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer. They were fearless, composed and brimming with confidence in a campaign that seemed destined to end a 19-year-long IPL trophy drought.

However, their season has suddenly unravelled as Punjab are now enduring a four-match losing streak. The Shreyas Iyer-led side began the tournament in high spirits, remaining unbeaten for their first seven fixtures, where they even shattered the record for the highest run chase in the tournament's history.

Ever since their winning streak came to an end following a six-wicket loss against Rajasthan Royals (RR), a lot has gone wrong for Punjab Kings. The 2025 runners-up have had forgettable performances in the last few fixtures, failing in all three departments of the game one after the other.

Fielding errors deepen woes

However, it’s the fielding that has hurt Punjab the most, with the side possessing one of the worst catch efficiencies in the ongoing season. If that wasn’t enough, the off-field controversies have added fuel to the fire as PBKS navigate through a tumultuous phase in the campaign.

In a video clip shared by Arshdeep Singh on his Instagram account, wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was seen vaping inside the aircraft. After it went viral, Arshdeep uploaded an edited version, cutting out Chahal from the background.

Off-field controversies add to growing pressure

However, the damage had been done as BCCI issued new guidelines for all franchises to follow, warning them of strict action for any further violations. Moreover, a few reports have been floating in the media questioning the seriousness of PBKS’ players, who are reportedly missing practice and have become unfit during the course of the ongoing season.

While PBKS responded to the claims through a post on their X account, urging journalists not to further peddle baseless rumours as reports, the damage that it has done to their reputation is immeasurable.

With the race to the playoffs heating up as eight teams are in contention for the top four spots on the IPL 2026 points table, Punjab are now under serious pressure to turn their campaign around. They’re sitting fourth at the points table, with six wins from 11 games, having 13 points to their name.

However, another loss could well push them into dangerous territory, diminishing their chances of qualifying ahead. As the season enters its business end and the action intensifies, PBKS must cut out the outside noise and focus on the task at hand to revive their fortunes.

Will MI hurt Punjab's playoffs charge?

PBKS’ assistant bowling coach Trevor Gonsalves also spoke about the team’s approach to external pressure and the leadership of head coach Ricky Ponting in helping the team navigate through it.

“We are only concerned and worried about tomorrow's game and how we are moving forward in the cricketing part. Ricky is a thorough professional with all these parts. And he also knows who he is dealing with. The top elite cricketers are also very professional and it's really great to see how he handles it. He doesn't beat upon it,” Gonsalves said in the pre-match press conference.

The upcoming fixture against Mumbai Indians (MI) could well define the direction of Punjab’s campaign. The Shreyas Iyer-led side desperately needs to get out of its losing rut. But Mumbai, who have nothing to lose after being already knocked out of the tournament, won’t leave any stone unturned to dent their playoffs charge.