Mumbai, Nov 15 (NationPress) The Punjab Kings have adopted a strategic, future-oriented approach as they unveiled their list of retained and released players in preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, set to occur in Abu Dhabi on December 16.

In a move reflecting a commitment to stability and long-term strategy, the franchise has chosen to retain a robust Indian core while parting ways with four overseas players, notably the star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell.

Maxwell, who wrapped up his third term with Punjab last season, is among five players who have been released. He is joined by Kuldeep Sen, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, and Pravin Dube—three of whom had minimal playing time in IPL 2025. Notably, Kuldeep and Hardie did not participate in any matches last season, while Dube played just once, making their release a logical step as the team seeks to rejuvenate its roster.

Head coach Ricky Ponting highlighted the significance of cultivating a well-established base while pursuing targeted enhancements.

“Last year’s IPL season was a success due to the contributions of every single player,” said Ponting, expressing gratitude towards the departing players. “We are now keen on acquiring top-tier overseas talent during the auction, aimed at addressing gaps in our middle-order power-hitting and all-rounder positions. This cautious strategy, centered around a stable core, is aimed at constructing a deep and balanced squad ready to contend for the IPL title.”

The retained roster embodies this vision. Punjab continues to support a formidable Indian lineup, featuring captain Shreyas Iyer and spearhead Arshdeep Singh, along with emerging talents like Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Musheer Khan, Harnoor Pannu, and Suryansh Shedge. The squad also includes impactful all-rounders and overseas players, such as Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mitchell Owen, and Lockie Ferguson, ensuring comprehensive depth across all departments.

CEO Satish Menon reiterated Ponting’s views, emphasizing the need for continuity. “Our primary objective was to preserve the strong Indian core of our team, which is crucial for long-term stability,” he stated. “By retaining key players like captain Shreyas Iyer and spearhead Arshdeep Singh, we ensure leadership stability. We will implement a focused strategy to secure high-impact replacements.”

Released Players: Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie, Kuldeep Sen, Pravin Dube.

Retained Players: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyala Avinash, Harnoor Pannu, Suryansh Shedge, Mitchell Owen, Xavier Bartlett, Lockie Ferguson, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Thakur, Vishnu Vinod.