Punjab Kings have issued an official statement confirming that star pacer Arshdeep Singh is “fully fit” and continuing to train actively with the squad despite recent speculation surrounding his fitness and inconsistent performances during IPL 2026. The franchise’s clarification comes at an important stage of the season, with PBKS fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive after suffering six consecutive defeats. Punjab, who looked like genuine contenders during the first half of the campaign, are now under massive pressure heading into the business end of the tournament.

In a statement, PBKS strongly denied reports that Arshdeep was struggling physically and stressed that the left-arm pacer remains fully committed to the team. “Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad,” PBKS said.

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“The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and he is raring to go as we head into a crucial contest of the tournament. His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident that he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well,” the statement added.

Interestingly, the franchise’s clarification has sparked fresh discussion, as earlier comments from PBKS head of sports science Andrew Leipus had hinted that Arshdeep was dealing with certain “restrictions” physically. Several media reports were based on Leipus’ remarks and linked those issues to the pacer’s fluctuating form this season.

Arshdeep has picked up 14 wickets in IPL 2026 so far, but his bowling average of 34.93 is his highest in a single season since 2022. While he remains Punjab’s leading wicket-taker, the Indian fast bowler has not consistently delivered the match-winning spells fans have come to expect from him over the years. Apart from on-field struggles, Arshdeep has also attracted attention off the field due to his social media activity.

🚨 STATEMENT FROM PUNJAB KINGS 🚨

Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad.

The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and… pic.twitter.com/lYwo7dPX8L

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 18, 2026

Discussions around his online presence and criticism from sections of fans have added further pressure during a difficult phase of the tournament. Speaking about Arshdeep’s physical condition and mental state, Leipus insisted the pacer has remained calm and professional despite outside noise.

“I don’t follow a lot of social media myself, so I know there’s been a bit of chatter behind the scenes. In terms of his behaviour, Arsh is pretty much a flat line. He’s not up or down. He gives his best out there,” Leipus explained.

The PBKS official also admitted the franchise had identified certain physical restrictions that may have impacted Arshdeep’s rhythm earlier in the season.

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“We’ve been working together a little bit, and looking at his body, there may be restrictions that could be a reason for some of his performances being up and down. He’s been feeling a lot better in the last couple of weeks, physically,” Leipus added. With Punjab Kings desperately needing victories to stay alive in the IPL 2026 playoff race, Arshdeep Singh’s form and fitness could now play a decisive role in determining the franchise’s fate.