IPL Auction 2026: Ricky Ponting Reveals Why PBKS Released Maxwell, Hardie & Inglis

IPL Auction 2026 has already generated heavy publicity, and the Punjab Kings are at the heart of it. Three big overseas teams stunned one and all with their three bold decisions in the mini-auction – to release some of their stalwarts, whom they believed could deliver in the IPL rather than playing only for personal glory. 

Back to Top Ahead of the December 16 mini auction, PBKS made a daring call by releasing three key overseas players, Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Hardie and Josh Inglis. 

An easy shot to take, and even knocked out of the park by fans, is that who approved this move was never a discussion? But head coach Ricky Ponting has finally provided some clarity into the franchise’s long-term plans. Read it on Winexchange

With IPL sides shaping up, Punjab Kings aren’t just chasing big names; they’re after balance. And it reflects a new mindset, emphasis on flexibility, availability, and role clarity over reputation.

Ahead of IPL Auction 2026: PBKS Keep an Eye on the Squads 

Punjab Kings had a specific strategy going into the IPL Auction 2026. Rather than having an expensive overseas cricketer sit on the bench, without getting a contenst or contributing to the playing XI, the franchise has overhauled its squad. Ricky Ponting confirmed that freeing overseas slots stood as the main priority.

Moreover, PBKS wanted greater freedom at the auction table. By releasing high-value overseas players, the franchise opened options to target specific profiles that suit their playing style. This decision also helped PBKS manage its purse better before the mini-auction.

Therefore, the move did not reflect dissatisfaction alone. It highlighted a strategic reset aimed at long-term consistency.

Ricky Ponting Explains Glenn Maxwell’s Release

Maxwell’s High Price and Limited Impact

Glenn Maxwell’s release surprised many, given his reputation as a contest-changer. However, Ponting explained that performance and team balance influenced the decision heavily. Maxwell featured in seven matches during IPL 2025 and scored only 48 runs. He averaged just 8.00, which hurt the team’s momentum.

In addition, his bowling did not provide enough value. Maxwell managed only four wickets throughout the season. PBKS expected more impact from an overseas all-rounder at his price point.

Ponting’s Honest Admission

Ricky Ponting opened up on his long bond with Maxwell. He conceded Maxwell’s talent and experience. Yet, as Ponting conceded, PBKS failed to bring the best out of him last season.

The coaches didn’t even consider Maxwell proved himself a guaranteed starter call for IPL 2026. PBKS had no time to carry an expensive player without a defined role. So the franchise chose to release him and even take a fresh look in the market at the auction.

Why PBKS Let Aaron Hardie Go

Lack of Opportunities in IPL 2025

Aaron Hardie’s release followed similar logic. While Hardie is destined for big all-rounder things, he didn’t even get a competition in IPL 2025. PBKS already had a bunch of foreign options jostling for a handful of slots.

So Hardie warmed the bench all season. “We’re talking about guys that haven’t played a tournament of cricket since January, so surely these guys need to be playing cricket contests.

Overseas Slot Optimisation

PBKS had a desire to revamp its overseas blokes ahead of the IPL Auction 2026. Hardie’s release gave the franchise more flexibility. This move allowed PBKS to explore overseas players who could contribute immediately.

Thus, the decision reflected planning rather than doubt about Hardie’s ability.

Josh Inglis’ Release Raises Eyebrows

Strong Performances But Availability Concerns

Beast (Josh Inglis) was doing wonders in IPL 2025. He made 278 runs in 11 innings. He also had a good average (30.88) and strike rate (162.57). Ingle undoubtedly was a vital figure in PBKS’s performance.

But availability factored heavily into the Cowboys’ release of him. Ponting said Inglis would be unavailable for much of IPL 2026 because of international duty.

Balancing Form and Availability

PBKS valued consistency and availability ahead of the new season. While Inglis performed well, his absence during key phases created concerns. Therefore, the franchise chose stability over short-term gains.

This decision again highlighted PBKS’s long-term thinking.

Additional Releases and Purse Situation

Along with Maxwell, Hardie, and Inglis, PBKS also released Kuldeep Sen and Praveen Dubey. These moves further streamlined the squad. Following the releases, PBKS had a remaining purse of INR 11.50 crore at IPL Auction 2026.

This purse gives PBKS decent flexibility. This means that the franchise can now narrow down on particular Indian and overseas players who fill its tactical requirements.

What This Means for PBKS at IPL Auction 2026

PBKS now approach the auction with clarity. They aim to secure players who offer guaranteed roles and availability. Rather than chasing star names, the team plans to focus on balance and depth.

Moreover, the franchise seeks overseas players who complement Indian talent. This approach could help PBKS build a more cohesive unit.

Fans tracking IPL updates through platforms like Winexchange have already started speculating about PBKS’s possible targets. As the auction nears, discussions across Winexch communities continue to grow.

Strategic Shift Could Define PBKS’ Future

Punjab Kings have often struggled with inconsistency in previous seasons. However, this latest decision suggests a mature strategy. Ricky Ponting’s influence appears clear, as PBKS now prioritise structure over sentiment.

If executed well, this reset could help PBKS challenge stronger teams in IPL 2026. Many analysts believe this auction could define the franchise’s future direction.

Cricket fans and fantasy enthusiasts on Winexch will closely monitor how PBKS uses its purse. The decisions made at the auction table could ultimately prove to be a turning point in helping the franchise realise its potential.

FAQs

1. Why did PBKS not retain Glenn Maxwell before the IPL Auction 2026?

PBKS released Glenn Maxwell after so good IPL 2025 for them and a high price tag. The team did not consider him an automatic starter for IPL 2026.

2. Why did Ricky Ponting let Aaron Hardie go?

Ricky Pointing revealed that Aaron Hardie didn’t get a match in IPL 2025. PBKS wanted to free overseas slots for more suitable options.

3. Why did PBKS let go of Josh Inglis despite good performances?

PBKS released Josh Inglis mainly due to concerns over his availability. International commitments would have kept him out for a major part of IPL 2026.

4. Where can fans follow IPL Auction 2026 discussions?

Fans actively follow IPL Auction 2026 news and debates on platforms like Winexch, where real-time discussions and updates continue to grow.