IPL 2026: Punjab Kings’ controversy surrounding Prabhsimran Singh & Preity Zinta explained

Punjab Kings issued a strong statement amid growing social media rumours.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) have been under scanner in recent weeks. The team has become one of the biggest talking points of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. After winning six of their first seven matches, PBKS suddenly lost momentum. Their strong start had made them one of the favourites for a playoff spot. But the recent slump has increased pressure on the team ahead of the final league matches.

PBKS’ four back-to-back losses against strong teams have hurt their campaign badly. Despite the setbacks, they are still in the top four and remain in the race for the playoffs.

Apart from on-pitch performances, their off-field antics too have taken limelight in recent days. Social media has been filled with discussions around some PBKS players. Several rumours and claims started circulating online, forcing the franchise to finally react through an official statement on Tuesday night.

PBKS and co-owner Preity Zinta slam rumours targeting Prabhsimran Singh

It all started when a report claimed that a PBKS top order batter (Prabhsimran Singh) has gained 10kg weight which has impacted his and the team’s performances. It also stated that the players play games till the morning and avoid going to practice sessions. It also stated that players are missing flights.

Another report claimed that there has been a big storm in PBKS’ camp. It suggested that the players of the team are upset with the attitude of their captain. Some players have also told the management that the captain needs to correct his behaviour, and there is a major rift between the captain and the senior players.

PBKS strongly reacted to the growing online chatter and urged people not to spread false information. The franchise first posted a statement targeting “sports journalists” but later deleted it and uploaded a revised version to avoid further controversy. 

“Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction,” PBKS posted on X.

PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta also backed the franchise publicly. She criticised the spread of fake narratives against the team and players.

“There’s a difference between criticism & calculated misinformation. Healthy debate around the game is welcome, but the deliberate spread of fake narratives to damage individuals, the team, or the brand should not & will not be taken lightly,” Zinta wrote on X.

Soon after, a few reporters posted a message on social media without naming anyone directly. The reporter questioned whether an incident involving an IPL player travelling with his girlfriend on the team bus was also being called fake news. The team and the team owner have yet not replied back to the recent posts. 

However, Prabhsimran Singh came with the subtle response, posting his picture on Instagram, quashing off all the rumours of him gaining 10 kgs weight.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings are currently fourth on the table with 13 points. Wins in their next two matches will seal a playoffs spot.

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