IPL 2026: Punjab Kings’ strongest predicted XI against Lucknow Super Giants

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) face a must-win battle against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 68 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium on Saturday, 23 May.

After starting the season with seven straight wins, Punjab is now on the brink of playoff elimination following a shocking six-game losing streak. To keep their top-four hopes alive, Shreyas Iyer’s men must defeat the already-eliminated LSG squad.

Lucknow’s batting brings strong momentum after Mitchell Marsh smashed a fiery 96 in their last game, but they must halt Punjab’s explosive opening duo of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who both carry strike rates above 211. PBKS had a commanding 54-run victory earlier this season against PBKS. While Punjab fights for tournament survival, Lucknow will want to finish their campaign on a high note.

Here is the strongest predicted PBKS XI for Match 68 vs LSG:

Top order: Prabhsimran Singh (Impact), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, 

This is easily one of the most explosive top-order batting line-ups in the league. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsiran Singh have already showcased their ability with the bat as a pair. They can thrash any bowling line-up in the powerplay. Aussie youngster Cooper Connolly has been a revelation for them this season. One thing is clear: if PBKS wants to snap their six-match losing streak, these three need to fire.

Middle order: Shreyas Iyer (c), Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Azmatullah Omarzai

Captain Shreyas Iyer will have to step up in this crucial encounter for them. The middle-order batter has scored 397 runs so far, with a strike rate of 162.70 with five fifty-plus scores. Shashank Singh will need to step up too. Suryansh Shedge has impressed everyone with his attacking game in just a few games.

Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai gives them an all-round option, with his special ability to tonk the ball hard during the death overs, playing a perfect role as a finisher. He is also a handy option with his right-arm medium pace, providing versatility to PBKS’ bowling attack.

Lower order/bowlers: Harpreet Brar, Xavier Bartlett, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh

The left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar had a decent outing against RCB, and will be a good option on a slow Ekana pitch. Xavier Bartlett is being used by them in the death overs. In 9 matches, he has picked up 5 wickets so far. Lockie Ferguson has vast T20 experience with him, and PBKS would want him to deliver in this crucial encounter. Arshdeep Singh still remains their best bowler. 

PBKS predicted XI for Match 68 vs LSG:

Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (capt), Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Xavier Bartlett, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh
 
Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal