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Irfan Pathan Says Owner Interference Hurt Punjab Kings and Sees Stability Ahead of IPL 2026

His remarks renew scrutiny of a multi-owner setup led by Mohit Burman with Preity Zinta as the franchise’s most visible face.

Overview

  • Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan recalled a lack of coordination dating back to 2009 as owners and coaches without cricket backgrounds clashed over direction.
  • He alleged disagreements among owners on the playing XI and team combinations, saying such rifts distorted on-field decision-making.
  • Pathan linked long-term inconsistency to leadership churn, noting the franchise has switched captains about a dozen times over the years.
  • He added that behind-the-scenes adjustments in recent seasons appear to have brought greater stability heading into IPL 2026.
  • Punjab Kings’ ownership stands at Mohit Burman 48%, Preity Zinta 23%, Ness Wadia 23%, and Karan Paul 6%, and the team opens on March 31 in Mullanpur.