Punjab Kings assistant bowling coach Trevor Gonsalves has made it clear that the franchise is locked in cricket despite the growing buzz and criticism surrounding the team on social media during the tense phase of IPL 2026. Punjab Kings, who finished as runners-up last season, have recently found themselves at the center of online debates due to the exclusion of some players from the field. However, before that, the side’s main opposition is against. Mumbai IndiansGonsalves insisted that the dressing room is only focused on performance and preparation.
Speaking to reporters, the PBKS assistant coach acknowledged the growing influence of social media in modern cricket but stressed that experienced players understand how to deal with external noise. “Yes, today social media plays a big role (and) news plays a big role (in the media). How the big players handle themselves against all these things is absolutely important,” Gonsalves said when asked how the team is handling social media chatter and criticism of the squad. Gonsalves added that senior players don’t need guidance on handling criticism or online backlash, saying the squad is savvy enough to handle such situations on their own. “You don’t need anybody to teach them, first of all. They are big enough. They know how to control themselves. As far as we are concerned, we are more concerned about the cricket part,” he told reporters on the sidelines of MI’s match against Punjab Kings. He also pointed to the unpredictable nature of online communication and misinformation, where opinions spread quickly regardless of facts. “Any blogger or anybody can go and put anything on social media and millions of people agree and say yes or no.” “But, frankly, we are not too worried about social media. Now, for now, we are only concerned and worried about tomorrow’s game (and) how we are going in terms of cricket,” he added.Earlier, Punjab Kings issued a strong message through their official social media account, urging fans and content creators to refrain from spreading unverified claims.
Post of Punjab Kings
“Criticism, annoyances and opinions are part of the game, not fake stories and manufactured narratives for cheap engagement. We urge everyone to verify the facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction,” the franchise posted. Co-Owner of Punjab Kings Preity Zinta It also addressed the growing online narrative around the team and demanded greater accountability when sharing information publicly.
Post by Preity Zinta
“There is a difference between criticism and misinformation. I urge everyone, including verified voices and media professionals, to exercise responsibility before spreading unverified information. Thank you,” she tweeted. Punjab Kings’ statement comes during a difficult phase of their campaign. The franchise had enjoyed a dream start since then. IPL 2026, remained unbeaten with six wins from their opening seven matches while one match ended in a rain-out. Their aggressive style and consistency quickly established them as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. However, the pace has changed sharply in recent weeks. Four consecutive defeats have complicated Punjab’s playoff hopes and increased the pressure in the latter part of the league stage. At the same time, the franchise is also focused off the field. Star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal Recently, a video that surfaced on social media platforms became the talk of the town online. Opener Prabhasmaran Singh has also been part of the online discussion regarding his fitness and has reported weight gain. Despite the setbacks, Punjab Kings remain strong in the race for the playoffs. They are currently fourth in the table with 13 points, and victories in their next two matches will see them qualify for the play-offs for the second consecutive season. With crucial matches against Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Supergiants, Punjab Kings now enter an important phase of their IPL 2026 campaign both on and off the field.
