In a significant pre-auction reshuffle, Punjab Kings have initiated their team restructuring by releasing four players from their squad. The franchise has parted ways with Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, fellow Australian Aaron Hardie, and domestic players Kuldeep Sen and Vishnu Vinod ahead of the crucial IPL auction scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi.
Major Squad Changes After Runner-Up Finish
This decision represents the franchise's first major movement since their impressive runners-up finish in the previous season. Punjab Kings reached the final before losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a thrilling conclusion to their campaign. Despite this strong performance, the management has opted for a strategic reset as they prepare for IPL 2026.
The released players include:
- Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
- Aaron Hardie (Australia)
- Kuldeep Sen (India)
- Vishnu Vinod (India)
Maxwell's Disappointing Season
Glenn Maxwell's release follows a particularly difficult season where the explosive all-rounder struggled to find form. The Australian appeared in only seven matches, managing just 48 runs while taking four wickets before a finger injury ended his tournament prematurely. He was later replaced by fellow Australian Mitchell Owen, and the franchise has now decided to completely move on from the veteran player.
Overseas Slot Management
Aaron Hardie, who was purchased for Rs 1.25 crore at the last auction, surprisingly didn't get a single game throughout the entire season. His exit was confirmed to news agency PTI by an IPL source, with indications that Punjab Kings are looking to free up valuable overseas slots heading into the December auction.
Among the domestic releases, both Kuldeep Sen and Vishnu Vinod leave without featuring in a single match during IPL 2025. Sen had joined the franchise for Rs 80 lakh at the mega auction but remained on the bench throughout Punjab's journey to the final. Vinod, who arrived ahead of the season, last played an IPL match in 2023 during his stint with Mumbai Indians.
Strategic Reset for Future Campaign
Punjab Kings are expected to provide more clarity on their retention strategy as the deadline approaches. The franchise is preparing for a competitive auction pool and possible structural changes to their squad composition.
Their performance last season, which saw moments of inconsistency but ultimately culminated in a late push to the title clash, has prompted a thorough reassessment of squad depth in key roles. With several teams entering the auction looking for all-round options and domestic backups, Punjab's released list adds four notable names to the available player pool.
The franchise will now focus on rebuilding around its core group of retained players as they attempt another deep run in IPL 2026, hoping to convert their runner-up finish into championship glory.
