Amid a mid-season slump that saw Punjab Kings (PBKS) lose four consecutive matches, team co-owner Preity Zinta has called for “verified voices and media professionals” to “exercise responsibility” and avoid spreading misinformation. Her statement came after PBKS fell to Delhi Capitals on Monday, their fourth straight loss following an impressive seven-match unbeaten run (six wins and one no result). Reports had surfaced alleging a lack of discipline among players both on and off the field.
Zinta wasted no time in dismissing those claims, warning that “deliberate spreading of fake narratives about the team and its players will not be taken lightly.” In a post on her official X handle, she wrote: “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. I urge everyone including verified voices & media professionals to exercise responsibility before amplifying unverified information.”
PBKS also released a statement echoing Zinta’s sentiment: “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 team’s recent performances have been concerning, particularly with the ball. They failed to defend a target of 223 against Rajasthan Royals at Mullanpur. Against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, they managed only 163/9, which GT chased down with four wickets in hand. At Hyderabad, their top order collapsed while chasing 236 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, falling 33 runs short at 202/7. Most recently, after posting 210/5 at Dharamshala, they could not defend that total against Delhi Capitals. Dropped catches, poor fielding, and expensive bowling rates have been major factors in their downfall.
Once atop the table, PBKS now sit fourth with six wins, four losses, and one no result, giving them 13 points. Their upcoming match against Mumbai Indians at Dharamsala is crucial to maintaining a top-four spot. With the five