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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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