The team’s journey to last season’s final under Iyer’s captaincy showcased their potential, despite the heartbreak against RCB. This year, they’re hungry for redemption. Iyer thrives on challenges, stressing that every match demands victory.

Iyer candidly discussed his post-injury transformation. Losing 7 kilos tested his resolve, but rigorous training brought him back stronger. ‘Overcoming that phase fills me with pride. I’m ready to captain with honor,’ he stated.

Pacer Arshdeep Singh highlighted the joy of fan support amid pressure. ‘It feels like an army of 30,000 backing you,’ he noted, committing to dominate home matches. He credited Punjab Kings for believing in him early on, when others hesitated. ‘Their trust means everything. I aim to repay with trophies and loyalty,’ Arshdeep said.

Key figures like CEO Satish Menon and sponsor CP Plus executives joined the celebrations. Punjab Kings enter IPL 2025 with renewed vigor, led by Iyer’s trophy obsession, promising an exhilarating campaign ahead.

‘I’ve played three-four Tests in the last month while honing white-ball skills,’ Shedge shared. ‘Format balance is key today—my prep started right after last IPL.’

Self-assessment came next: ‘I hold myself to high standards and see room for enhancement in past chances,’ he admitted. ‘Identifying flaws kickstarts progress.’

Handling crunch games? ‘Emotional mastery is vital,’ he explained. ‘I used to get carried away young, but now composure drives smart choices on the field.’

Revisiting the final heartbreak, Shedge said, ‘No title, but invaluable lessons. Loss toughens you—embrace it as fuel, not failure.’

Team spirit shines bright, thanks to coach Ponting and skipper Iyer’s shared history. ‘Our chemistry boosts everyone,’ Shedge affirmed. ‘Camps reconnect us, fostering rhythm. Arshdeep’s humor lightens the mood.’

Idol worship peaked with Virat Kohli encounter. ‘First handshake—pure chills, a childhood hero on the same turf,’ he beamed.

On prior season: ‘Solid effort, elusive win. Life’s like that sometimes—turnbacks become breakthroughs.’

Shedge’s pledge? All-round impact in batting, bowling, fielding to crown PBKS IPL 2026 champs. The Kings are roaring.

Pricing caters to all: standard tickets from ₹1,500, premium hospitality from ₹7,500. Offline options open March 23 at key locations like the Mullanpur stadium, Mohali’s IS Bindra PCA (Gates 2/2A), and P4 parking for match-day collections.

The BCCI’s first-phase schedule spans March 28 to April 12, featuring 20 matches on 10 iconic grounds. It begins with RCB vs SRH, includes four double-headers, and follows a 3:30 PM/7:30 PM format. PBKS, still stinging from last year’s final defeat to RCB by six runs, is determined to claim their first IPL trophy.

Upcoming PBKS games in phase one: March 31 (GT, evening), April 3 (at CSK, evening), April 6 (at KKR, evening), April 11 (SRH, afternoon, home). With a revamped squad and home advantage, Punjab is poised for a strong campaign. Don’t miss out—book now!

Pathan’s optimism stems from Iyer’s leadership prowess and batting consistency. The recent auction additions of Cooper Connolly and Ben Dwarshuis signal Punjab’s intent to build on last year’s momentum. For Pathan, this season offers Iyer a golden opportunity to force his way back into the national T20 team.

Speaking to GeoStar, Pathan delved deeper: ‘Shreyas might not be fixated on using IPL for T20 selection, but his Punjab form speaks volumes. He’s excelled across franchises and for India, particularly in white-ball cricket. India needs him in T20s.’

The ex-cricketer singled out Iyer’s playoff masterclass against Mumbai Indians, reminiscing about the cheeky third-man shot against Bumrah. ‘That performance was unforgettable. I can’t wait for an encore, and my gut says it’ll happen.’

Pathan lauded Punjab’s well-rounded squad. Top-order firepower from Iyer, Prabhsimran Singh, and Priyansh Arya looks solid. Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh strengthen the middle, while Stoinis handles finishing duties. Much hinges on Mitchell Owen’s output; if the powerhouse clicks, selecting the pace attack—Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, Marco Jansen—becomes straightforward, backed by depth. Punjab opens its IPL 2026 account versus Gujarat Titans on March 31.

The atmosphere was electric, with crowds lining the roads, drums beating, and garlands aplenty. Vishal, visibly moved, addressed the press: ‘Being part of Punjab Kings is a dream come true, but the love from my people here tops it all.’

Tracing his journey, he highlighted the grind behind the glamour. ‘Hard work morning and evening, always pushing limits to honor my roots and nation – that’s my mantra. This IPL contract is just the beginning.’ Interestingly, the bowler counts Virat Kohli as his ultimate inspiration, fueling his ambition to excel in the T20 spectacle.

He didn’t forget to thank Kalyan Singh, his pillar of strength who taught him life’s lessons and backed his cricketing pursuit. In a nod to youngsters, Vishal urged, ‘No shortcuts – grind hard in your field, be it sports or studies, and success will follow.’ With Punjab Kings gearing up, Vishal’s story adds fresh fuel to the IPL narrative of grassroots triumphs.

Kohli isn’t just a player for Nishad—he’s the blueprint. ‘His attitude fires me up. Those drives? Pure magic,’ the youngster gushed. It’s Kohli’s influence that drew him to cricket, fueling endless hours of practice.

From financial hardships to family doubts, Nishad’s story screams perseverance. He labored alongside his father, nearly abandoning his dreams. ‘Mom said quit cricket; it’s too hard,’ he remembered. But his unyielding spirit prevailed. ‘I promised her I’d succeed,’ and soon, the family united in support.

Tennis ball cricket was his playground until a buddy spotted raw talent in his action. ‘Try leather balls,’ came the advice that changed everything. With a mentor’s free coaching for three years, Nishad honed his skills.

Local T20 tournaments became his proving ground. Two solid seasons later, Punjab Kings came calling. His secret weapon? Seamlessly transitioning spin-heavy tennis ball tricks to elite-level bowling.

Nishad’s journey embodies the IPL’s magic—turning underdogs into stars. Will he face Kohli soon? Cricket lovers can’t wait.

The surge in search interest can be largely attributed to an exhilarating IPL 2025 season for Punjab Kings. Under the new leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer, the team reached the IPL final for the first time since 2014, captivating audiences worldwide. Despite a close loss in the final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, their consistent performance and maiden final appearance generated significant global curiosity. Key pre-season developments, including the record-breaking acquisition of Shreyas Iyer for Rs 26.75 crore, the addition of veteran coach Ricky Ponting, and strategic player transfers like spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, further fueled this sustained interest. These on-field successes and high-profile personnel changes were instrumental in PBKS’s impressive Google ranking. The team’s proactive approach to building a relatable brand and connecting with fans emotionally has clearly resonated, as acknowledged by Chief Commercial Officer Saurabh Arora. He emphasized the importance of fans connecting with the team’s stories, culture, and identity, stating that the global ranking reflects a deep fan investment and curiosity.