Punjab Kings Suffer Early Setback as Ferguson Set to Miss IPL 2026 Start

Punjab Kings have been dealt an early setback ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson set to miss the initial phase of the tournament, even as the franchise builds momentum on the back of continuity and strong preparation.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Ferguson will be unavailable for the early stages of the season as he takes time off following the birth of his son.

The right-arm fast bowler had earlier taken a short paternity break during the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka before rejoining the national side for the Super 8 stage.

After the third T20I against South Africa at Eden Park, his home ground, he is set for a longer break and is expected to return only for the later stages of the IPL.

"I'll have a few weeks off after this, before sort of heading to the later stages of the IPL and away for the winter," Ferguson added.

Are Punjab Kings’ extensive camps key to their IPL 2026 preparation?

Despite the absence of Ferguson, Punjab Kings remain optimistic about their campaign, banking on squad stability and a strong team environment.

Batter Shashank Singh underlined the importance of trust within the group, pointing to the franchise’s decision to retain most of its players from last season.

“The trust that was shown to the players last year was very important. You will see this time that 23 players are the same as last year. Every team’s skill level is almost the same in the IPL. But what makes a difference is trust and belief, and I think that is increasing with time here,” Shashank said during a promotional event in Chandigarh.

He added that the team’s preparations have been extensive, with multiple camps conducted in the lead-up to the season.

“This is technically our fifth or sixth camp. The franchise is making sure we have regular camps. The one in Abu Dhabi was the best among all. The preparation is really up to the mark, and we are all ready to go and keep you guys entertained,” he said.

Can Punjab Kings turn belief into an IPL 2026 title win?

Shashank made the team’s ambitions clear, expressing confidence in their title chances.

“The next two months are very important for all of us, so our entire focus is on how to win the trophy,” he said. “I try my best to enjoy the big moments rather than taking them as pressure. I have already told everyone that this year we are lifting the trophy for sure.”

Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal highlighted the role of team bonding in a long tournament.

“This tournament is not just for one week; it is for two months. When you set up three to four camps, you build a bond. You eat together, play together, and within those two months, you become a family. Our motivation is that we do not leave anyone alone, which helps us perform better on and off the field,” Chahal said.

Ferguson, meanwhile, reflected on his international commitments, stating that playing for New Zealand remains a privilege despite recent injury setbacks.

"Always a pleasure playing for the Black Caps, really enjoyed my time in India with the group again, and unfortunately, the injuries played out earlier in the season. Really wanted to play some home cricket and feel just privileged to be able to play in front of the home crowd," he said.

In the ongoing T20I series, South Africa won the first match by seven wickets before New Zealand responded with a 68-run victory in the second game. The third T20I is scheduled to be played at Eden Park on Friday.

(With inputs from ANI)