5 Overseas Players Punjab Kings (PBKS) Can Retain for IPL 2026

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) ended IPL 2025 on a strong note after relying on a mix of homegrown performers and overseas talent. Franchises like PBKS are gearing up for another auction before IPL 2026 and must retain some sets of players before the event.

The franchise will be torn between retaining overseas match-winners pre-auction or opting for more talent on the market. Let’s see some of the top players PBKS may retain if they choose to keep overseas talent in their current lineup.

1. Marcus Stoinis

Aussie middle-order batsman Marcus Stoinis is a top player PBKS will not want to see go elsewhere before IPL 2026. The experienced cricketer brings extra bat and ball talent where necessary to PBKS’ ranks. He can provide needed death overs power and bowl as a seamer if called upon.

The franchise deployed Stoinis as a top-six batsman at IPL 2025 due to balance he offers in Indian conditions. He fits many player profiles the franchise needs and looks set to spend another season in Punjab.

2. Josh Inglis

Aussie wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis provides several skillsets as a player to the PBKS lineup. The cricketer offers a decent mix of batting power and flexibility while delivering needed backup wicketkeeping options.

Inglis can also play spin and pace balls with equal comfort, a blend of skills PBKS would not want to let go to other franchises. His dual skillset is worth retaining as his franchise aims to avoid bidding wars for their top talent.  

3. Marco Jansen

South African leftie pace allrounder Marco Jansen combines impressive skills PBKS may need to bolster their IPL 2026 title aspirations. Jansen snatched key wickets during their 2025 IPL campaign and can send bounce balls with decent lower-order hitting. The player has a seam-friendly approach and delivers well in IPL games.

His strong wicket-taking skills and overall talent pool will be major drivers toward his probable retention for IPL 2026.  

4. Aaron Hardie

Aussie allrounder Aaron Hardie is another top candidate for retention at PBKS if the franchise considers his 2025 performance. Hardie delivers remarkable line bowling and can provide discipline to PBKS’ wicket-taking ranks.

Jamieson can deliver short and quick seam options while extracting bounce from grounds to force early wickets. Quick scalps from Hardie could be a vital ingredient PBKS need if they aim to progress deep into the business end of IPL 2026.

His price tag may be an issue, but the cricketer provides match-winning support to a franchise seeking IPL glory next season.

5. Kyle Jamieson

Black Caps cricketer Kyle Jamieson could be a major player PBKS choose to retain before IPL 2026. The N/Zealand bowler has the height and skillset to bowl disciplined balls while helping shape games during late overs. He does not offer quicker seam options but can extract bounce and take needed wickets during high-stakes games.

How Many Overseas Players Were in PBKS’ IPL 2025 Squad?

Australian cricketers form the bulk of overseas players who featured for PBKS at IPL 2025. 5 out of 8 PBKS overseas players at IPL 2025 are Australian. The franchise relied on 1 wicketkeeper-batter, 3 all-rounders, and a bowler from Down Under. Other overseas players from PBKS’ 2025 lineup hail from South Africa, Afghanistan, and New Zealand.

See the full overseas player breakdown below:

Punjab Kings (PBKS) Full IPL 2025 Squad

Wicketkeeper-Batters

Specialist Batters

All-Rounders

Bowlers

PBKS IPL 2025 Player Distribution by Role and Overseas Cricketers