Punjab Kings (PBSK) have finally cleared the air around Arshdeep Singh after rumors about his fitness went viral amid the ongoing IPL 2026. The left-arm pacer has been leaking too many runs this season, and many fans believed he was struggling with some physical issue behind the scenes.
The Indian pacer was retained by the Punjab Kings for INR18 crore, but this season has been a nightmare for him. He has been bowling too many wides and struggling to control the flow of runs. In 13 matches, Arshdeep Singh picked up 14 wickets at an economy rate of 9.78 and an average of 34.93.
Fitness concerns grow around Arshdeep Singh amid horrific IPL 2026 campaign
As his poor bowling performances continue in the ongoing IPL 2026, rumors about fitness issues also start making noise. Amid the rumors, Punjab Kings’ Head of Sports Science Andrew Leipus confirmed that they’ve been working together and looking at ‘Arshdeep’s body if there’s any restrictions in his body that might be a reason for some of his performances being up and down.’
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His poor form eventually played a big role in the PBKS’s struggles in the second half of the season, as they have now lost six matches in a row after six straight wins this season. They have now only one match left, and they must win this by a big margin to make it to the playoffs.
After their crushing 23-run defeat against the RCB in Dharamshala, PBKS fast bowling coach James Hopes confirmed that Arshdeep Singh is fully fit and hungry, saying, “His work ethic is world class, and he is a massive asset not just for Punjab Kings but also for India.”
PBKS quashes injury rumors around Arshdeep Singh
And now on Monday (May 18), PBKS has strongly denied all the rumors and confirmed that Arshdeep is completely fit. The franchise said the Indian pacer has been training with the squad, and there are no fitness concerns around him.
The Punjab Kings said in an official statement: “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.
His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well.”
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PBKS on brink of elimination after embarrassing defeat to RCB
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings suffered a massive blow to their IPL 2026 playoff hopes after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 23 runs on May 17. While RCB officially booked their place in the playoffs, PBKS are now on the verge of elimination.
The latest defeat also pushed PBKS into an unwanted record, as they have now become the first team in T20 tournament history to concede nine 200-plus totals in a single season. Now, Punjab’s playoff chances totally depend on their final league match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 23.
The clash has turned into a virtual knockout game for the franchise. A loss against LSG will officially end PBKS’ IPL 2026 campaign, with the team stuck on 13 points on the table.
