Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has shared his expected playing XI for the Punjab Kings (PBKS) as the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season approaches. Pathan has retained openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh after their key roles in the previous season, helping PBKS achieve their second IPL win.
Pathan has also included Australia’s Mitchell Owen in his lineup, anticipating his first full season in the IPL. The 24-year-old gained attention during the 2024-25 Big Bash League, scoring 452 runs at a strike rate of 203.60 for the Hobart Hurricanes. Pathan has placed him at number three but notes that he might adjust his position with captain Shreyas Iyer depending on the match conditions.
“At number three and four, you can rotate Mitchell Owen and Shreyas Iyer. You decide who to send against fast bowling and who to send against spin. Depending on the pitch and the strategy of the opposing team, you can make these changes,” said Irfan in a video on his YouTube channel.
Pathan also praised PBKS lower-order batsman Shashank Singh, placing him at number seven and assigning him the finisher’s role. He increased his total to 350 runs in 2025 with an average of 50 and a strike rate of 153.50, establishing himself as a key player for Punjab.
“Shashank has been batting well recently, and his performance last year was vital for Punjab’s success. While we focus on players scoring 500-600 runs, like Prabhsimran, Shreyas Iyer, or Priyansh Arya, the 350 runs Shashank scored were equally important, as he came through in crucial situations. His confidence helps him push forward. If he continues this way, he could have a bright future in Cricket,” Pathan added.
PBKS will start their 2026 IPL campaign on Tuesday, March 31, facing Gujarat Titans at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium in New Chandigarh.
Irfan Pathan’s Probable XI for PBKS
Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Mitchell Owen, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson / Ben Dwarshuis.
Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal
