Maxwell Among Key Releases

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are planning to release at least seven players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, with Glenn Maxwell being the most notable name. Maxwell, who joined PBKS in 2025 for INR 4.2 crore, played seven matches before being sidelined with a fractured finger midway through the season.

During IPL 2025, Maxwell scored 48 runs in six innings, with a best score of 30, and took four wickets. However, his last four matches yielded single-digit scores.

Replacement Player: Mitchell Owen

Maxwell was replaced by Australian all-rounder Mitchell Owen, known for his exceptional performance in BBL 13, where he scored 452 runs at a strike rate of 203.60, including two centuries. Despite a disappointing IPL debut (a two-ball duck), PBKS are expected to retain Owen, who was acquired at his base price of INR 3 crore.

Maxwell’s IPL Journey and T20 Performance

Maxwell, who retired from ODIs in June 2025, has had three stints with PBKS and played for four IPL teams overall. He represented PBKS from 2014–2017, returned in 2021, and again in 2025.

In T20Is this year, Maxwell scored 171 runs at a strike rate of 169.30, with a highest score of 62 not out against South Africa.

Other Players Set to be Released

PBKS are also likely to release:

• Aaron Hardie

• Kyle Jamieson – replacement for injured Lockie Ferguson, took 5 wickets in 4 matches

• Kuldeep Sen

• Praveen Dubey – played 1 match

• Vishnu Vinod

None of Hardie, Sen, or Vinod featured in IPL 2025.

Looking Ahead to IPL 2026

PBKS aim to rebuild their squad for IPL 2026, focusing on retaining key talent like Owen while releasing players who underperformed or missed opportunities this season.

This strategy ensures better team balance, strengthens their chances of winning, and provides flexibility during the player auction.