The IPL 2025 returns after a week-long interval, Punjab Kings are preparing to resume their struggle to qualify for the playoffs. The team, captained by Shreyas Iyer, has so far had a commendable season, gathering 15 points from 11 games. They have yet to perform in the next few games to make it to the playoffs for the first time since 2014.

James Hopes Confirms Lack of Major Overseas Players

Ahead of their vital encounter against Rajasthan Royals (RR) this Saturday, Punjab Kings’ assistant coach James Hopes confirmed that some key overseas players will not be available to play the match. Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis, who were due to return after the tournament was suspended as a result of India-Pakistan tensions, will still be unavailable for the RR match. On the positive side, Marco Jansen has arrived in the camp, presenting some new possibilities.

The IPL suspension caused a brief hiccup for most teams since some overseas superstars had gone back home during the tension between India and Pakistan. Punjab Kings were not exempt from this, with some international players leaving during the hiatus.

Marcus Stoinis & Josh Inglis Missing In Match Against RR

“We do not have a complete squad. We hope that Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis join us early next week, but to be honest, I’m pretty bullish on the depth in our squad, like we have Mitchell Owens here. Marco Jansen arrives today, he has been training in Dubai. Outside of those two Australians and Aaron Hardie, we have got our full squad,” James Hopes

Ricky Ponting’s Last-Minute Decision to Remain in India

While most foreign players were set to board planes to their respective home countries, Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting took a significant role in making sure most of his team remained behind in India.

This paves the way for a thrilling comeback to play for Punjab, with playoff aspirations still being high despite some turmoil regarding availability of players.