Punjab Kings (PBKS), the runners-up from the 2025 IPL edition, have one of the most settled squads heading into the IPL 2026 auction. After reaching the final of the previous season, they did one of the most basic yet critical things correctly by keeping the majority of their core players. PBKS will enter the event with the second-lowest budget of INR 11.5 crore and can only sign four players during the auction. This suggests that the squad may fill minor holes while remaining a strong contender for the 2026 IPL crown. Here are the top three players the Punjab Kings should target in the next edition. 

1. Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan, an Indian middle-order hitter, could be another good option for PBKS. He is familiar with the team ethos and may fit in effortlessly, offering experience and finishing power in the middle of the lineup. Though he has had a setback in his health and performance, his recent progress in both has made him one of the most promising campaigners for the upcoming edition.

He has played eight IPL seasons for three different franchises, amassing 585 runs in 37 innings. While his overall averages may appear low, Sarfaraz has a high strike rate, particularly in key death-over scenarios. Unsurprisingly, he would collaborate with his brother, Musheer Khan. 

2. Devon Conway

Devon Conway is a reliable left-hand opening batter who can give a promising start to the team's batting innings. But, with his recent forgettable and mediocre performances for the Chennai Super Kings, his release could be a valuable asset to the other teams. One such team is the Punjab Kings, which can have a relaxing time at the forthcoming auction. The Kiwi batter can make the already-strong Punjab Kings batting even stronger.

Also, with Priyansh Arya being a budding left-hand prodigy, Conway can enhance the variety of the batting order and give the right guidance to the emerging unit. In just 29 matches, he has made a colossal 1080 runs at a commendable average of 43.20, making him one of the attractive bids in the 2026 IPL Auction.

3. Matt Henry

Matt Henry can be the pacer to target for the PBKS side. Though he has played a mere two matches and scalped just a wicket, his T20I stats say the other way. The Kiwi speedster has taken 40 wickets in 31 T20Is, with an economy of eight.  

In the PBKS lineup, he might be the key overseas pacemaker alongside Lockie Ferguson and Xavier Bartlett.  They could benefit positively from his character, and he could bring the much-needed steadiness to their bowling assault, which has been lacking for quite some time.