Arshdeep Singh for Punjab Kings - (Source: AP)On Sunday, May 17, Punjab Kings suffered their 6th straight loss in IPL 2026 and Arshdeep Singh's underwhelming performance was one of the key reasons behind the defeat. The left-arm seamer gave away 43 runs in his four overs, which also defined the season for him.Arshdeep Singh is having a forgetful season as the left-arm seamer has picked up 14 wickets in 13 innings. He has a strike-rate of 21 and leaking away runs with an economy of 9.78.Arshdeep Singh Struggling with Niggle?Notably, before Punjab Kings' match against RCB, there were reports that Arshdeep Singh is carrying a niggle. “We’ve been working together a little bit and looking at his body if there are any restrictions in his body that might be a reason for some of his performances being up and down. We think we’ve hit on a bit of a winner there. He’s been feeling a lot better in the last couple of weeks, physically,” Andrew Leipus said.Hence, several reports claimed that Arshdeep Singh is not fully fit, which is the reason behind dip in his form.Punjab Kings Issue Official StatementIn the latest events, Punjab Kings took to Instagram where they made an official statement and confirmed that Arshdeep Singh is fully fit, contrary to the media reports."Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad. The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and he is raring to go as we head into a crucial contest of the tournament," the report read.Also Read: BCCI Drags Itself Out Of Coming Under Indian Government"His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident that he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well," the statement added.Punjab Kings Struggle To Enter IPL 2026 PlayoffsNotably, Punjab Kings started IPL 2026 on a positive note as they won six straight matches. However, they saw a major dip in form and now have six straight defeats, risking their playoff chances.For the unversed, Punjab Kings are placed 4th on the table with 13 points. They will play their last league stage match against LSG on Saturday, May 23. In case, they suffer a defeat, then the Shreyas Iyer-led side will crash out of the tournament.Also, with a win, PBKS need to rely on other teams as they don't want the likes of CSK or RR to have 16 points under their belt. In that happens and PBKS fail to qualify for the playoffs then it will be one of the most historic downfalls in the league because the Preity Zinta-owned side was one of the favourites to enter the top-four.Also Read: CSK And SRH Clash In Chennai As IPL 2026 Playoffs Race Heats Up
