Punjab Kings (PBKS), formerly Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), is a cricket team based in Mohali, Punjab, and has been part of the IPL since 2008. While the team has not won a title, it reached the finals in 2014 and made one other playoff appearance. In 2021, the franchise changed its name to Punjab Kings, reflecting a fresh start. During the 2022 IPL mini-auction, the team broke records by signing Sam Curran for INR 18.50 crore, the highest bid in IPL history at the time.
Financially, Punjab Kings has strong backing, with sponsorships from major brands across sectors like real estate, beverages, and fintech. These partnerships give sponsors significant exposure during matches, through jersey placements and other promotions. The team’s rebranding introduced a new logo and jerseys, which modernized its image. Bollywood actress and co-owner Preity Zinta also brings added attention to the franchise.
Fan engagement plays a big role in Punjab Kings’ identity. Social media interactions, local tie-ups, and community activities keep fans connected. The team represents Punjab’s love for cricket, with packed stands at the PCA Stadium in Mohali. The red-and-gold colors and lively chants create an unforgettable atmosphere. While the team’s success on the field has been limited, it remains a symbol of pride and passion for the state.
Expulsion from the IPL and Return
In 2010, the IPL faced a controversy linked to the BCCI and Lalit Modi. On 10 October, Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals were removed from the league. The announcement caused backlash, and Kings XI Punjab decided to challenge the decision in court. The team first attempted discussions with the IPL but failed to find a solution. They then filed a case in the Bombay High Court, accusing the IPL of trying to replace them with wealthier bidders for the 2012 season.
The Bombay High Court stayed the termination order, allowing the team to remain in the league. The dispute between the BCCI and the franchise ended in 2012, letting Kings XI Punjab continue its IPL journey.
Name Change
There was a major change for the team on 17 February 2021. Kings XI Punjab was renamed Punjab Kings before the IPL season. Co-owner Ness Wadia said the change was part of rebranding after 13 seasons. He expressed disappointment with the team’s failure to win a title. Wadia hoped the new name would mark a fresh start. The name change had been planned two years earlier but was delayed due to COVID-19.
Home Ground, Team Owner, and Social Media
Punjab Kings plays its home games at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. The stadium has a capacity of 38,000. Since 2010, the team has also played some matches in Dharamsala and Indore.
The team is owned by KPH Dream Cricket Private Limited. The owners include Mohit Burman from Dabur India, Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia from the Wadia Group, and Karan Paul. Burman holds the biggest share at 46%. Zinta and Wadia own 23% each, while Paul has 8%.
On social media, Punjab Kings has a strong following. The team has 3.3 million followers on Instagram, 9 million on Facebook, and 3 million on Twitter. In total, the team has 15.3 million followers. This places them 6th among all IPL teams in terms of social media following.
Business, Income, and Expenses
The Punjab Kings franchise is valued at over INR 700 crore as of early 2023. The team spends £5,782,000 (INR 590,000,000) annually on player salaries. Since its founding, the franchise has spent INR 6,865,617,543 on player salaries. Lokesh Rahul is the highest-paid player, earning INR 110,000,000 a year.
Media Rights
The BCCI’s revenue-sharing model has supported IPL teams since the league began. The BCCI sells media rights to broadcasters and streaming platforms. The BCCI keeps a portion and gives the remaining amount to the teams. In 2022, the media rights for the 2023-2027 seasons were sold to Viacom18 (OTT) and Disney Star (TV). The deal earned INR 48,390 crore. Viacom18 paid INR 23,759 crore. As the IPL’s popularity grows, Punjab Kings’ revenue may increase in the future.
Sponsorships
Sponsorship is the second-largest source of income for IPL teams. Punjab Kings has worked with several big brands over the years. These include Whirlpool, Reebok, and Videocon. In 2023, Ebix Cash, Lotus Herbals, and Dream 11 became the team’s sponsors. Reliance Jio has sponsored the team since 2018. Its logo has appeared on the team’s playing kit for the past five years.
Stadium Ticket Sales and Gate Passes
Punjab Kings plays most of their home games at the Inderjit Singh Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Some games are played in Dharamsala. The team hosts seven home matches each season. Revenue comes from ticket sales and gate passes during these matches. IPL franchises set the prices for tickets. After COVID, stadium attendance has returned, and ticket sales have become an important income source for the team.
Merchandise Sales
The sports merchandise business in India is growing. Punjab Kings sells merchandise like jerseys and souvenirs through its online store, powered by Fancode. Sales rise during the IPL season as fans buy items to show their support. In 2023, PBKS partnered with ‘playR’ to sell exclusive merchandise and accessories to fans.
Prize Money
In the first IPL season, Punjab Kings reached the semi-finals but lost to Chennai Super Kings. The team struggled in the following years. In 2014, they finished first in the points table and reached the final. They lost in the final, but their second-place finish earned them INR 10 crore in prize money.
Title Partner: Dream11
Dream11 is a fantasy sports platform based in Mumbai. For IPL 2024, it will be the title sponsor of Punjab Kings. The Dream11 logo will be placed on the front of the team’s matchday shirts. Dream11 will also be the sleeve sponsor for the team during the season. This partnership shows Dream11’s growing connection with IPL teams.
Principal Sponsors
Punjab Kings have partnered with several brands that are featured on their matchday shirts for the IPL. These sponsors include both well-known companies and emerging brands. Here is a look at the main sponsors for the team in the 2024 season.
- BKT: BKT, a Mumbai-based tire manufacturer, became the Official Tire Partner for eight IPL teams in March 2022. These teams include Punjab Kings. Since IPL 2021, BKT has had its logo on the back of the matchday shirt for PBKS;
- Reliance Jio: Reliance Jio, a major telecom company in India, has sponsored all IPL teams since 2018. For PBKS, Jio’s logo appeared on the back of the shirt in 2018. In 2019 and 2020, Jio’s logo was on the chest of the matchday shirt. Now, Jio serves as a sleeve sponsor for PBKS;
- All Seasons Hand Rub: All Seasons Hand Rub, a hand sanitiser brand by All Seasons whisky, became the Official Safety Partner of PBKS in 2021. The logo of All Seasons Hand Rub appears on the sleeve of PBKS’s matchday shirt;
- Hindware Italian Collection: Hindware Italian Collection, a brand known for its sanitaryware and faucets, partnered with PBKS in March 2022. The brand’s logo is displayed on the team’s matchday headgear;
- Astral Pipes: Astral Pipes became an associate partner for PBKS in March 2024, ahead of the IPL season. Their partnership with the team brings their brand to PBKS’s fanbase;
- KENT RO: In March 2024, KENT, a healthcare products company, joined PBKS as their Principal Sponsor for IPL 2024. The KENT logo is visible on the team’s jersey, promoting both the sport of cricket and the KENT brand;
- Campa Cola: Campa Cola, an Indian soft drink brand, became the Official Pouring Partner for Punjab Kings ahead of the 2023 IPL season.
Official Partners
Punjab Kings has partnered with several brands for the 2024 IPL season. Below are some of the key partners who are supporting the franchise in various categories.
- Avon Cycles: Avon Cycles, a company based in Ludhiana, makes bicycles and e-bikes. It partnered with Punjab Kings for the 2024 IPL season. Avon also worked with PBKS in 2020. This deal focuses on promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging young people to play sports and embrace cricket;
- Advance Decorative Laminates: In March 2024, Punjab Kings signed a deal with Advance Decorative Laminates. This company makes decorative laminates, PVC laminates, and plywood. Advance Decorative Laminates became the Official Laminates & Plywood Partner for PBKS in the 2024 IPL season;
- Dazller: Dazller, a cosmetics brand from Aravind Laboratories, became the official beauty partner of Punjab Kings for IPL 2024. Dazller will style the PBKS cheer squad and supply beauty products like eyeliners, nail polish, and lipsticks. The brand aims to reach more people across India through this partnership;
- Verka: Verka, a dairy brand from MILKFED, became the Official Dairy Partner for Punjab Kings in the first week of IPL 2024. Verka has been producing dairy products since 1973;
- Polaroid Eyewear: Polaroid Eyewear, an Italian eyewear company, became the official lifestyle eyewear partner for Punjab Kings before the 2024 IPL season.
Fan Merchandise Partners
Punjab Kings has teamed up with several brands to bring official team merchandise to fans. These partnerships help fans find products like clothing and accessories to support the team.
- FanCode Shop: FanCode, a platform for multiple sports by Dream Sports, became the merchandise partner for Punjab Kings in 2020. The partnership was paused due to the pandemic and resumed for IPL 2024;
- Shop The Arena: Shop The Arena joined as the official merchandise partner for Punjab Kings before IPL 2023. The brand sells quality sports merchandise like T-shirts, jackets, and joggers on its website;
- SIX5SIX: SIX5SIX, an Indian sportswear brand, became the official fan merchandise partner for Punjab Kings in March 2024;
- DUDEMe: DUDEMe, an Indian lifestyle clothing brand, became the official fan merchandise partner for Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2024.
Other Key Partners
Besides the main sponsors, Punjab Kings have other important partners. PlayR is the Global Merchandise Partner and sells team merchandise to fans worldwide. PayTM Insider is the official ticketing platform. Fans can buy tickets for PBKS home games through PayTM Insider. Lava is the Handset Partner for IPL 2025. Timex is the Time Partner and has its logo on the team’s playing kit trousers.
Conclusion
Punjab Kings have built strong relationships with many sponsors, which helps them financially. These sponsors include big names like Dream11, Lava, and Timex. The team works with a range of brands, from local companies to global ones. These partnerships support the team in different ways, including building a strong squad and keeping up with the competition in the IPL. Through these deals, Punjab Kings keep growing and connect with their fans in different ways.
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