Chandigarh: Punjab Kings find themselves in a precarious position in the Indian Premier League 2026 season after suffering their fifth consecutive defeat, prompting assistant coach Brad Haddin to deliver a blunt message to the squad: “there’s no tomorrow.”
The franchise, which had a dream start to the season, is now battling to stay alive in the playoff race following a dramatic dip in form. Their latest loss came against Mumbai Indians, further complicating their qualification scenario and leaving them with no margin for error.
Strong start undone by sudden slump
Punjab Kings began their campaign in dominant fashion, winning six of their first seven matches, while one game ended without a result. At that stage, the team looked like a strong contender for a top-two finish and a direct entry into the playoffs.
However, the narrative has shifted drastically over the past few matches. A string of five consecutive losses has seen them slip down the points table, turning a once-promising campaign into a tense fight for survival. With only two league matches remaining, the team must now win both to keep their playoff hopes alive.
“There’s no tomorrow,” says Haddin
Speaking after the defeat, Brad Haddin did not mince words as he addressed the team’s situation. He emphasised that the players must now focus entirely on winning their remaining fixtures.
“We’ve still got two games to go, and destiny is still in our hands. But now, there’s no tomorrow. We have to win our remaining games — it’s as simple as that,” Haddin said during the post-match press conference.
He acknowledged the disappointment within the camp, especially considering how well the team had started the season. According to him, the players must now channel that frustration into improved performances on the field.
Handling pressure key in IPL
Haddin pointed out that pressure is an inseparable part of the IPL, particularly in the latter stages of the tournament. He admitted that Punjab Kings have struggled to rise to the occasion in recent matches.
“The entire tournament is about handling pressure, especially at this stage. We haven’t been able to manage those big moments in the last few games. That has been disappointing,” he said.
The former Australian wicketkeeper-batter stressed the importance of staying present and not overthinking outcomes. Instead, he urged the players to focus on contributing meaningfully during crucial phases of the game.
Dressing room remains focused
Despite the losing streak, Haddin insisted that the atmosphere within the dressing room remains positive and focused. He dismissed concerns about external criticism, including chatter on social media, stating that the team is concentrating on internal improvement.
“I’m not really across social media, but from inside the camp, the focus is clear — we have to find a way to win. External noise is part of professional sport. The key is to stay in the right headspace when you step onto the field,” he explained.
His remarks suggest that the team management is trying to shield players from distractions and maintain a strong mental approach during a critical phase of the season.
Crucial clash against RCB ahead
Punjab Kings now face a must-win encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. The match is expected to be a high-pressure contest, with both teams eyeing a place in the playoffs.
For Punjab Kings, the equation is simple — win both remaining games or face elimination. The upcoming fixture will test not only their cricketing skills but also their mental resilience under pressure.
Conclusion
Punjab Kings’ dramatic fall from early dominance to a do-or-die situation highlights the unpredictable nature of the IPL. While their campaign hangs in the balance, the team still has a chance to script a comeback.
With Brad Haddin’s strong message ringing in their ears, the players must regroup quickly and deliver under pressure. The next two matches will define their season — and whether they can turn adversity into opportunity.