Kamal Ghorui
Punjab Kings enjoyed a dream start to their IPL 2026 campaign, winning six of their first seven matches, with one game ending in no result, to comfortably sit at the top of the points table during the first half of the season. However, their momentum has dramatically slipped in recent weeks, with the side suffering four consecutive defeats in the second half of the tournament. With only three league matches remaining, Punjab now find themselves under pressure, needing at least two wins to secure a place in the playoffs.Their next challenge comes against Mumbai Indians in Dharamshala. Punjab had defeated MI earlier this season at the Wankhede Stadium, and this upcoming clash will mark the second meeting between the two sides in IPL 2026. Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, have already been knocked out of playoff contention.
One of Punjab’s standout performers this season has been Prabhsimran Singh, who has scored 382 runs in 11 matches. However, the young opener has struggled for rhythm in recent games, managing scores of just 15, 3, and 18 against Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals respectively. His dip in form has affected Punjab’s ability. Ahead of the crucial encounter against Mumbai Indians, the 25-year-old appealed to fans to come out in large numbers and support the team in Dharamshala as Punjab look to revive their playoff hopes.“Sat Sri Akal, Sher Squad! I’m speaking to you from Dharamsala. We’ve certainly lost four matches, but we’re still fourth on the table, and we’ll make sure to qualify and lift the trophy. I can only say that your support is very important to us. Support us and turn Dharamsala red. The next match is against Mumbai; we have to win it and make a comeback from there. We will lift the trophy. Support us; your support is very much needed,” Prabhsimran said in the video. With six wins, four losses, and one no-result from their first 11 matches, Punjab Kings are currently placed fourth on the points table. However, the playoff race remains extremely tight, with Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals closely following them in fifth and sixth positions respectively. Another defeat, especially against Mumbai Indians in their upcoming fixture, could potentially push Punjab in trouble for playoff race.
