Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings, formerly Kings XI Punjab, are the IPL’s entertainers who always promise more than they deliver, yet remain impossible to ignore. Zero titles in 17 seasons, but some of the most thrilling individual performances in tournament history have come in Punjab’s red jersey.

Chris Gayle’s 175 not out against Pune Warriors in 2013 remains the highest individual score in IPL history. That innings, struck from just 66 balls at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, encapsulates everything Punjab Kings are about: explosive power, box-office entertainment, and a refusal to play conservatively.

IS Bindra Stadium (PCA Stadium) in Mohali sits in the shadow of the Shivalik Hills, providing one of the most scenic cricket venues in India. The Punjab crowd is loud, passionate, and unapologetically loyal despite years of near-misses. The bhangra drums and dhol beats create an atmosphere unlike any other IPL ground.

Punjab’s cricket culture extends beyond the stadium. The state has produced some of India’s greatest cricketers, from Bishan Singh Bedi to Yuvraj Singh, and the raw athletic talent of Punjabi cricketers is renowned. The franchise taps into this deep talent pool while adding overseas firepower.

Punjab’s rich sporting heritage extends beyond cricket to hockey, athletics, and kabaddi. The state’s agricultural lifestyle produces natural athletes, and the Punjab Kings franchise taps into this talent pool. The franchise’s fanbase extends to the Punjabi diaspora worldwide, with supporters in Canada, the UK, and Australia following every match with the same passion as fans in Mohali.

The franchise’s decision to rebrand from Kings XI Punjab to Punjab Kings reflected a desire for a fresh start. The new identity brought renewed energy, and the Punjab fanbase remains among the most loyal in the IPL despite the trophy drought. Mohali’s proximity to Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, means matchday crowds draw from both states.

For 2026, Punjab Kings look to finally convert potential into silverware. The squad combines aggressive Indian batting with overseas bowling talent. International fans can watch matches starting at 19:30 IST, which converts to 14:00 GMT for London, 10:00 AM EDT for New York, and 01:00 AEDT for Sydney. Check India time for your local conversion.