Punjab Kings are still chasing their first-ever IPL title, but ahead of the IPL 2026 season, a former champion believes the franchise may have uncovered a valuable asset who could change their fortunes. So let’s know about Vishnu Vinod Punjab Kings IPL 2026.
Former India and Kolkata Knight Riders cricketer Robin Uthappa has highlighted Vishnu Vinod as a smart and underutilised signing for Punjab Kings, urging the franchise to make full use of the uncapped wicketkeeper-batter in the upcoming season.
Robin Uthappa Backs Vishnu Vinod as Key PBKS Asset
Speaking ahead of IPL 2026, Uthappa praised Punjab Kings for acquiring Vishnu Vinod, who has previously been part of franchises such as Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals.
Uthappa believes that the young wicketkeeper-batter has the potential to become a game-changer if given consistent opportunities.
“Vishnu Vinod is a really exciting signing for Punjab Kings, and I genuinely hope he gets regular opportunities in the IPL. We’ve only seen glimpses of his ability during his stint with Mumbai Indians, but he’s got phenomenal talent,” Uthappa said on JioStar.
How Vishnu Vinod Strengthens Punjab Kings’ Batting
According to Uthappa, Punjab Kings need greater batting depth—especially in the middle order—and Vinod fits that requirement perfectly. His presence could help PBKS post bigger first-innings totals and improve their ability to chase challenging targets.
Uthappa also pointed out Vinod’s versatility, stating that he adds value beyond just batting.
“His inclusion adds depth to the middle order and even offers a potential fast-bowling option. There’s a lot of value he can bring to this setup,” he added.
PBKS Need a Backup for Yuzvendra Chahal: Abhinav Mukund
Former India cricketer Abhinav Mukund also weighed in on Punjab Kings’ squad composition, raising concerns over Yuzvendra Chahal’s fitness.
Chahal’s absence from the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy has sparked questions about PBKS’s spin-bowling depth for IPL 2026.
Potential Spin Alternatives for Punjab Kings
Mukund suggested that Punjab Kings should be prepared with backup options in case Chahal is unavailable. He mentioned Praveen Dubey and Cooper Connolly as possible alternatives who could step in if required.
“The only concern is Yuzvendra Chahal not featuring in domestic tournaments. They’ve added Praveen Dubey and Cooper Connolly, who is an exciting left-handed all-rounder capable of batting anywhere from three to five,” Mukund noted.
He added that Connolly’s versatility strengthens the middle order while offering additional balance to the squad.
PBKS Squad for IPL 2026
Punjab Kings have assembled a well-rounded squad heading into IPL 2026, blending youth with experience across departments.
Punjab Kings Squad – IPL 2026:
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, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Vishal Nishad, Praveen Dubey.
Can PBKS Finally Break Their IPL Title Jinx?
With insightful additions like Vishnu Vinod and growing squad depth, Punjab Kings appear better equipped than ever to challenge for the IPL crown in 2026. If managed wisely, these “hidden gems” could play a crucial role in helping PBKS finally lift their maiden IPL trophy.
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