Punjab Kings head into IPL 2026 with a strong and well-rounded fast-bowling unit, combining proven international experience with reliable Indian pace options. After retaining their core and adding only four players at the mini-auction, PBKS have ensured continuity in their bowling attack while maintaining depth across all phases of a T20 innings.
With options for new-ball swing, middle-over control, and death-over execution, Punjab Kings’ pace battery looks well-equipped for the upcoming season. Here is a detailed look at the top fast bowlers in the PBKS squad for IPL 2026.
Arshdeep Singh remains PBKS’ pace spearhead
Arshdeep Singh continues to be the leader of Punjab Kings’ fast-bowling attack. Known for his ability to swing the new ball and execute yorkers at the death, Arshdeep plays a crucial role across all phases of the innings. His consistency in pressure situations has made him one of the most reliable Indian pacers in the IPL.
As PBKS look to build on their finalist finish, Arshdeep’s performance with both the new ball and in the closing overs will be central to their bowling plans.
Lockie Ferguson adds express pace and aggression
Lockie Ferguson provides Punjab Kings with raw pace and wicket-taking ability. Capable of bowling at high speeds, Ferguson is often used to unsettle batters with short bursts of aggression. His ability to hit the deck hard makes him effective on quicker surfaces, particularly during the middle overs.
Ferguson’s experience in global T20 leagues adds an important overseas dimension to PBKS’ pace attack.
Marco Jansen offers bounce and all-round value
Marco Jansen brings height, bounce, and left-arm pace to the PBKS lineup. His ability to extract steep bounce makes him effective with the new ball, especially against top-order batters. In addition to his bowling, Jansen contributes useful lower-order runs, adding balance to the side.
His versatility allows PBKS to rotate bowling options depending on conditions and match-ups.
Ben Dwarshuis strengthens left-arm pace depth
Ben Dwarshuis, who returned to Punjab Kings at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, adds further left-arm pace depth. The Australian all-rounder has an extensive T20 record, with over 220 wickets in the format. Known for his control and variations, Dwarshuis can be deployed in both powerplay and middle-over spells.
His previous association with PBKS and T20 experience make him a valuable squad option.
Xavier Bartlett adds discipline and movement
Xavier Bartlett is another overseas fast bowler who strengthens PBKS’ pace resources. Known for his disciplined lines and ability to move the ball early, Bartlett offers control in the powerplay. His inclusion provides Punjab Kings with flexibility when conditions favour swing bowling.
Vijaykumar Vyshak and Yash Thakur provide Indian pace support
Vijaykumar Vyshak and Yash Thakur add depth to Punjab Kings’ Indian pace contingent. Both bowlers offer control and the ability to operate in short spells when required. Their presence ensures PBKS can manage workloads across a long IPL season without over-relying on a small group of fast bowlers.
PBKS fast-bowling strength for IPL 2026
With Arshdeep Singh leading the attack, supported by international pacers Lockie Ferguson, Marco Jansen, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett, Punjab Kings possess a balanced and adaptable pace unit. The additional support from Indian fast bowlers further strengthens their bowling depth.
As PBKS aim for another strong campaign in IPL 2026, the effectiveness of this fast-bowling group across powerplay and death overs could once again be a defining factor.
