Punjab Kings (PBKS) are facing tough time in the IPL 2026, dropping to 4th place on the points table after four consecutive defeats despite an initial 6-1 dominance. Amidst the losses, the team is also dealing with reports of dressing room discord and disciplinary issues.
Rumours of a divided dressing room unhappy with skipper Shreyas Iyer recently surfaced on social media. Moreover, a video allegedly showing leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal using a vape went viral, prompting online backlash.
It was also reported that opener Prabhsimran Singh has been reprimanded by the franchise for gaining 10 kg during the tournament, indicating issues with fitness and discipline.
On the eve of PBKS’ match against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Dharamsala, assistant bowling coach Trevor Gonsalves dismissed increasing social media noise and criticism surrounding the team, insisting that the dressing room remains focused only on performances and preparation.
“Yes, today social media plays a big role (and) the news (in media) plays a big role. How the big players handle themselves against all these things is absolutely important,” Gonsalves said in the pre-match press conference.
Gonsalves emphasized that mature players can handle social media chatter and scrutiny on their own, focusing instead on on-field performance.
“You don't need anyone to teach them, first of all. They are big enough. They know how to control themselves. As far as we are concerned, we are more concerned about the cricketing part,” he added.
Gonsalves highlighted how easily unverified opinions can gain traction online, noting that "any blogger or any person" can influence public perception regardless of the facts.
“Any blogger or any person can go and put up anything on the social media and there are lakhs of people agreeing to it and saying yes or no.”
“But, frankly speaking, we are not too concerned about what the social media says. Now, at present, we are only concerned and worried of tomorrow's game (and) how we are moving forward in the cricketing part,” he remarked.
Earlier, PBKS and co-owner Preity Zinta issued a statement on X, condemning the spread of fake news surrounding their players and team management.
"Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone, especially “sports journalists", to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction," PBKS wrote, before deleting the post, where they removed the “sports journalists" part to avoid further controversy.
"Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction," the updated post read.
On the other hand, Zinta quoted PBKS' deleted post and called for responsibility, differentiating between "criticism" and "calculated misinformation" aimed at damaging the franchise or its players.
"There’s a difference between criticism & calculated misinformation. Healthy debate around the game is welcome, but the deliberate spread of fake narratives to damage individuals, the team, or the brand should not & will not be taken lightly. I urge everyone — including verified voices & media professionals — to exercise responsibility before amplifying unverified information. Thank you," Zinta tweeted.
Punjab Kings are still in contention for the playoffs, but another defeat could derail their chances. The Shreyas Iyer-led side will look to return to winning ways when they face Mumbai Indians in Dharamsala on Thursday (May 14).
