Top 3 Players Punjab Kings Should Target in IPL 2026 Auction: Punjab Kings performed brilliantly in the 2025 IPL, reaching the finals, but Maxwell’s contribution was negligible that season. Maxwell has many years of experience and is a renowned name in world cricket. Punjab capitalized on this experience by signing Maxwell to their squad.
Punjab Kings acquired Maxwell for ₹4.2 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Maxwell managed to score only 48 runs in seven matches, averaging 8.00 and having a strike rate of 97.96. His bowling performance was comparatively better, taking four wickets at an average of 27.50.
The 36-year-old Maxwell was injured midway through the campaign due to a broken finger, and was subsequently replaced by fellow Australian all-rounder Mitchell Owen.
Let’s explore three players who could replace Maxwell and could be considered by Punjab.
3. Matthew Short (Australia)
Australian Matthew Short has previously been a part of Punjab’s squad. Short joined the Kings in 2023 as a replacement for Jonny Bairstow. However, despite playing six matches, he failed to impress, leading to his unsold performance in the next auction.
This top-order batsman’s all-round abilities, including his part-time off-spin, could make him an ideal replacement for Maxwell. He is a destructive batsman, but he also knows how to adapt his game to different match situations. The 29-year-old can open the innings and also fit into the role of a finisher. His versatility will be beneficial for Punjab. He has played for the franchise before, and this could help him quickly establish himself in the team.
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2. Michael Bracewell (New Zealand)
New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has performed well in international cricket recently. While he may not be as explosive a batsman as Maxwell, he is a shrewd and seasoned player. He has the ability to score valuable runs with his bat and take wickets with his bowling.
He played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2023. The 34-year-old recently led the Kiwi team (New Zealand) in a three-match T20I series against Australia at home. Bracewell could play a key role as a finisher for the Punjab Kings.
1. Cameron Green (Australia)
Many teams will consider including Australian all-rounder Cameron Green in their squad. Green missed IPL 2025 last year due to injury. However, ahead of the upcoming auction, it is clear that many teams will be interested in investing in him. Green has also started bowling and is slowly recovering from his injury.
The 26-year-old has considerable IPL experience, having previously represented the Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings. In 29 IPL matches, Green has scored 707 runs at an average of 41.59 and a strike rate of 153.70. With the ball, he has taken 16 wickets at an economy rate of 9.08.
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