NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings moved to calm fresh concerns around the fitness of fast bowler Arshdeep Singh on Monday, issuing a clarification that the left-arm pacer is “fully fit” and has been training regularly with the squad despite recent chatter about his physical condition. The update arrived a day after PBKS suffered a 23-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026, a defeat that extended Punjab’s losing run to six straight matches in the competition.
In its statement, the franchise pushed back against reports suggesting Arshdeep was not at his best. “Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad.”
Punjab Kings also said the coaching and support staff were satisfied with his work in preparation for the next phase of the tournament. “The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and he is raring to go as we head into a crucial contest of the tournament,” the release added.
The statement further highlighted what the team has observed in practice. “His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident that he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well.”
The clarification followed comments from PBKS head of sports science Andrew Leipus made prior to the RCB match, when he suggested Arshdeep had been managing some physical limitations during the season. “We’ve been working together a little bit and looking at his body if there’s any restrictions in his body that might be a reason for some of his performances being up and down. We think we’ve hit on a bit of a winner there. He’s been feeling a lot better in the last couple of weeks, physically,” Leipus said during an interaction in Dharamshala.
In recent outings, Arshdeep has not consistently matched his usual impact, and he has found it harder to land yorkers and bouncers reliably in high-pressure moments. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamshala on Sunday, he conceded 43 runs in his four overs, finishing with an economy rate of 10.75 while picking up one wicket.
Beyond on-field form, Arshdeep has also drawn attention due to social media controversies in recent weeks, adding another layer of scrutiny to his performances.
Meanwhile, PBKS’ campaign has taken a sharp turn for the worse over the past three weeks. After building momentum earlier in the tournament, the side now faces a growing possibility of missing the playoffs, having lost six matches in a row.
Punjab Kings still have one league game remaining, against Lucknow Super Giants, and can reach a maximum of 15 points. However, qualification is not fully in their control, as they will also need results from other matches to fall in their favour to secure a playoff spot.
