Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta has strongly reacted to the wave of rumours and online speculation surrounding the franchise during the ongoing IPL 2026 season. With Punjab enduring a difficult phase after a dream start to the campaign, both Zinta and the franchise released statements asking fans, media outlets, and social media users to avoid spreading misinformation about the team and its players.
Punjab Kings were among the standout sides in the first half of IPL 2026. The franchise won six of their opening seven matches and looked like genuine title contenders early in the tournament. Their strong run also included a record-breaking chase, as they surpassed their own milestone for the highest successful run chase in IPL history.
However, the momentum has faded dramatically in recent weeks. PBKS have now suffered four consecutive defeats, slipping out of the top two in the points table and raising concerns about their playoff chances. Alongside the disappointing results, the team has also found itself at the centre of multiple controversies and rumours on social media.
The franchise has recently been surrounded by discussions related to alleged off-field issues. Reports and online chatter regarding an alleged vaping incident involving Yuzvendra Chahal, along with comments about Prabhsimran Singh’s fitness and supposed weight gain, have gained attention across several platforms.
At the same time, certain posts also questioned the attitude and discipline within the squad. While neither the franchise nor the players directly addressed the individual claims, the growing noise online appears to have prompted Punjab Kings and Zinta to respond publicly.
Taking to X, Zinta made it clear that criticism related to cricket performances is acceptable, but targeted attempts to spread fake stories would not be tolerated. She also urged verified accounts and media professionals to act responsibly before amplifying unconfirmed reports or rumours.
“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,” Zinta wrote in her statement.
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… https://t.co/yeqbsTwLBd
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) May 12, 2026
Punjab Kings back owner’s message
Punjab Kings echoed a similar sentiment in their own statement on social media. The franchise acknowledged that criticism and banter are part of professional sport but stressed that fabricated stories created purely for online engagement cross the line.
“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 franchise posted.
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.
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) May 12, 2026
The statements come at an important stage of the tournament, with Punjab trying to regain control of their season after a sudden dip in form. Despite the four-match losing streak, PBKS are still firmly in the playoff race and have enough matches left to revive their campaign.
Crucial clash against Mumbai Indians awaits
Punjab Kings will now turn their attention back to cricket as they prepare for a crucial clash against Mumbai Indians on May 14 in Dharamshala. With the playoff race tightening, the upcoming fixture could play a major role in shaping Punjab’s season. The franchise will hope that the focus shifts back to on-field performances as they look to recover from their recent slump and rediscover the form that made them one of the most dangerous teams earlier in IPL 2026.
