Watch: Preity Zinta's 'fake narratives' sparks PBKS vs sports journalist war of words in IPL 2026

The recent statement by Punjab Kings (PBKS) co-owner Preity Zinta on ‘fake narratives’ and ‘verified voices’ has sparked a growing controversy between the franchise and sports journalists during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Both Zinta and the team have issued their respective statements on the entire situation. 

Punjab, despite making a strong start in the campaign with six victories in seven games, including a washed-out result, lost its track in the middle and faced four successive defeats. A few days ago, they were placed at the top of the points table, but now they have dropped to the fourth rank due to a net run rate of +0.428.  

Four consecutive losses and growing media scrutiny — The PBKS season context behind Preity Zinta's outburst

The franchise, late on May 12, issued a statement on the ‘fake stories and made-up narratives’ on X (formerly known as Twitter). On the first post, they blamed the journalists for the entire situation, before editing out the word in the updated post.

Watch how journalists hit back-

“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 runners-up of the IPL 2014 have been revealed.

Meanwhile, Zinta urged verified voices and media professionals to shoulder responsibility before amplifying the unverified information. She also warned the journalists of taking strict steps from the Shreyas Iyer-led side.

See Also: Preity Zinta slams ‘fake narratives’ after Punjab Kings’ fourth straight IPL 2026 loss

“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.” The PBKS co-owner stated.

However, the journalists didn’t take the statements lightly and informed that the few members of the franchise’s PR team reached out to them to delete their personal tweets. The news reporter also pointed out how this team hasn’t behaved properly in the past, and the former players have expressed their disappointment at the treatment in the franchise.

The PBKS owner-media war of words deepens — What it means for Punjab Kings' IPL 2026 survival chances

Amidst the growing tension, the Punjab Kings will hope to get better in the fielding and bowling departments to get back into winning ways. It’s noteworthy that they have yet to confirm their place in the playoffs of the IPL 2026.

See Also: Watch: Yuzvendra Chahal caught vaping in flight ahead of PBKS vs DC clash in IPL 2026

The Indian star, Shreyas Iyer, has been fantastic in leading the franchise, having smashed 392 runs in 10 innings at an average of 56 and a strike rate of 164.01, thanks to five half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 71 runs. Their two uncapped openers, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, have also been clinical with the bat. 

But their biggest issue has been their poor fielding, which they will need to address quickly heading into the next encounter against the Mumbai Indians on May 14 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.