IPL 2026: 'Any person can put up anything'- PBKS coach slams social media noise

"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," the franchise posted.

Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta also addressed the growing online narratives surrounding the team and called for greater responsibility while sharing information publicly.

"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. I urge everyone including verified voices & media professionals to exercise responsibility before amplifying unverified information. Thank you," she tweeted.

Punjab Kings’ statement comes during a difficult phase in their campaign. The franchise had enjoyed a dream start to IPL 2026, remaining unbeaten in their opening seven matches with six victories while one match ended without a result because of rain. Their aggressive approach and consistency quickly established them as one of the strongest sides of the tournament.

However, momentum has shifted sharply in recent weeks. Four straight defeats have complicated Punjab’s playoff hopes and increased the pressure heading into the final stretch of the league stage.

At the same time, the franchise has also been dealing with off-field attention. Star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal recently became a talking point online after a video allegedly showing him vaping on a flight surfaced across social media platforms. Opener Prabhsimran Singh has also been part of online discussions regarding his fitness and reported weight gain.

Despite the setbacks, Punjab Kings remain firmly in the playoff race. They are currently placed fourth on the table with 13 points, and victories in their next two matches would secure qualification for the playoffs for a second consecutive season.

With crucial fixtures against Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants still to come, Punjab Kings now enter a defining stage of their IPL 2026 campaign both on and off the field.