New Delhi: Contradicting the statement of their sports science head, Punjab Kings on Monday issued a clarification regarding the fitness of pacer Arshdeep Singh. The franchise confirmed that the left-arm seamer is fully fit and has been training regularly with the squad, despite recent concerns over his physical condition.
The statement came a day after their 23-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026, which marked Punjab Kings' sixth consecutive loss in the tournament. The team's campaign has taken a sharp downturn over the last three weeks, with the side now facing the risk of missing the playoffs.
Franchise Statement on Arshdeep Singh
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, the statement read. 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 statement further added: 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.
Earlier Concerns Raised by Sports Science Head
The clarification followed remarks made by PBKS head of sports science Andrew Leipus before the Royal Challengers Bengaluru match. Leipus had indicated that Arshdeep was dealing with some physical restrictions during the season.
We have been working together a little bit and looking at his body if there are any restrictions in his body that might be a reason for some of his performances being up and down, Leipus had said while responding to a query from The Times of India in Dharamshala. We think we have hit on a bit of a winner there. He has been feeling a lot better in the last couple of weeks, physically.
Arshdeep Singh's Recent Form
Arshdeep has not looked at his usual level in recent matches and has struggled to execute yorkers and bouncers consistently during pressure situations. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamshala on Sunday, he conceded 43 runs in four overs at an economy rate of 10.75 while taking one wicket.
The pacer has also been involved in social media controversies in recent weeks, adding to the scrutiny around his performances. Despite these challenges, the franchise has expressed full confidence in his abilities.
Punjab Kings' Playoff Hopes
Punjab Kings have one league match remaining against Lucknow Super Giants and can finish with a maximum of 15 points. However, they also need other results to go in their favour to qualify for the playoffs. The team, which had built momentum in the first half of the tournament, now faces an uphill battle to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
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