IPL 2026: Arshdeep Singh fully fit and training, PBKS confirms
Synopsis
Punjab Kings have moved to silence fitness rumours surrounding Arshdeep Singh, confirming the left-arm pacer is fully fit and training ahead of their must-win final league game. With 14 wickets in 13 games, Arshdeep is central to PBKS's slim playoff hopes — but the team needs both a win and external results to go their way.
Key Takeaways
Punjab Kings officially confirmed on 18 May that Arshdeep Singh is 'fully fit' and actively training with the squad.
Arshdeep is PBKS's highest wicket-taker this season with 14 scalps in 13 games .
PBKS suffered a 23-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamshala , further denting their playoff hopes.
With one game left against Lucknow Super Giants , PBKS can reach a maximum of 15 points but need other results to favour them.
Arshdeep has reportedly been unusually expensive in recent matches, with his death-overs execution drawing scrutiny.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Monday, 18 May issued a firm clarification on the fitness of their lead fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, stating that the left-arm pacer is 'fully fit' and has been actively training with the squad ahead of a pivotal stage in IPL 2026. The franchise moved swiftly to counter circulating reports that had cast doubt over his availability for the remainder of the tournament.
What PBKS Said
In an official statement, the franchise said: 'Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad. The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and he is raring to go as we head into a crucial contest of the tournament.'
The statement added: 'His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident that he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well.'
Arshdeep's Season So Far
Arshdeep is PBKS's highest wicket-taker this season, having claimed 14 scalps in 13 games. However, the pacer has reportedly been unusually expensive in recent outings, with his yorkers and bouncers not landing with the precision that made him a match-winner during back-to-back Men's T20 World Cup triumphs. Critics argue that his dip in form has contributed to the team's broader slump.
Notably, Arshdeep has also faced off-field attention, reportedly linked to social media controversies — including a Snapchat video in which he was heard calling Tilak Varma 'andhera', and separate reports of him being spotted with his alleged girlfriend Samreen Kaur.
PBKS Playoff Picture
Punjab Kings' campaign has been in a sharp freefall over the last three weeks. Their playoff hopes took another hit with a 23-run defeat to defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamshala. With just one match remaining — against Lucknow Super Giants — PBKS can accumulate a maximum of 15 points, but remain dependent on other results going their way to secure a top-four finish in the 10-team competition.
What's Next
The final league-stage match against Lucknow Super Giants is effectively a must-win for PBKS, with the added caveat that even a victory may not be enough without favourable outcomes elsewhere. Arshdeep's confirmed fitness is a boost, but the team will need him to rediscover his best form — particularly his death-overs execution — if they are to make a late push for the playoffs.
Point of View
Which speaks to a broader collapse in the second half of their campaign. Arshdeep being fit is necessary but not sufficient: a pacer who has struggled with his yorkers and bouncers in death overs needs a performance reset, not just a clean bill of health. If he fires in the final league game, it changes the narrative; if he doesn't, the fitness statement will look like damage control.
NationPress
7 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arshdeep Singh fit for IPL 2026?
Yes. Punjab Kings confirmed on 18 May that Arshdeep Singh is 'fully fit' and has been actively training with the squad. The franchise stated the team management is 'absolutely pleased with his progress.'
How many wickets has Arshdeep Singh taken in IPL 2026?
Arshdeep Singh has taken 14 wickets in 13 games, making him Punjab Kings' highest wicket-taker in the IPL 2026 season.
Can Punjab Kings still qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs?
Yes, but it is difficult. PBKS can reach a maximum of 15 points with a win in their final game against Lucknow Super Giants, but they are also dependent on other results going in their favour to secure a top-four finish.
Why were there concerns about Arshdeep Singh's fitness?
Reports had circulated suggesting doubts over Arshdeep's availability, reportedly linked to his recent dip in form — including struggles with his yorkers and bouncers — and off-field controversies. PBKS issued the clarification to counter these reports directly.
Who do Punjab Kings play in their last IPL 2026 league game?
Punjab Kings face Lucknow Super Giants in their final league-stage match of IPL 2026. A win is essential for any chance of a playoff berth, though other results must also go their way.
