Why Are Punjab Kings Called the Underdogs of IPL?

Since the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, Punjab Kings have been a team that inspires hope, heartbreak, and endless debates. They are one of the original franchises, yet remain without a title to their name. While teams such as Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have built dynasties, Punjab Kings have often found themselves labelled the IPL’s underdogs.

The tag has stuck for a number of reasons: a mix of inconsistent performances, unstable leadership, and a history of near misses. Yet alongside that history runs a parallel story — of resilience, passionate fans, and the ability to defy expectations on their day. This article explores why Punjab Kings have become the perennial underdogs of the IPL, and what it would take for them to finally shed that label.

Early Promise and the 2008 Season

Punjab’s journey began with promise. In the very first IPL season, then known as Kings XI Punjab, the team made it to the semi-finals. Players like Shaun Marsh and Yuvraj Singh lit up the tournament, raising expectations that Punjab would become one of the consistent powerhouses of the league.

That early success created a foundation of hope. Fans believed the team could build momentum and claim the trophy in the near future. Yet, as the seasons rolled on, Punjab struggled to convert that potential into consistent results. What started as early promise soon turned into frustration, sowing the seeds of the “underdog” identity.

Inconsistent Performances Over the Years

One of the main reasons Punjab Kings are seen as underdogs is the lack of consistency across their history. Unlike CSK or MI, who are known for stability in leadership, Punjab have cycled through captains, coaches, and strategies almost every other season.

They have had long spells of finishing in the bottom half of the table, often unable to build momentum. Instability in team selection, frequent chopping and changing of batting orders, and inconsistent bowling combinations meant they rarely strung together back-to-back strong seasons.

This inconsistency created a reputation: Punjab could pull off a giant-killing one night, but collapse under pressure the next. The underdog label became a convenient way to explain their unpredictability.

The 2014 High Point — But No Trophy

If there is one season that defines the “so close, yet so far” story of Punjab Kings, it is 2014. Under the leadership of George Bailey, and powered by the explosive batting of Glenn Maxwell and Virender Sehwag, Punjab dominated the league stage.

They reached the final in style and looked favourites to claim their maiden trophy. In the final, Sehwag smashed a breathtaking century in the semi-final, and Maxwell’s fearless hitting had lit up the tournament. But in the title clash against Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab fell short. Despite Wriddhiman Saha’s heroic century, KKR chased down the target, leaving Punjab with heartbreak.

That season remains the pinnacle of Punjab’s IPL history — and also the sharpest reminder of how close they came to glory. For many fans, 2014 cemented their status as underdogs: brilliant, entertaining, but unable to take the final step.

Star Power vs Results

Another striking feature of Punjab Kings’ journey has been the gap between the star names they’ve had and the results they’ve produced. Over the years, the team has boasted some of the biggest players in world cricket: Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, KL Rahul, Glenn Maxwell, and even Anil Kumble in a coaching capacity.

On paper, these names should have been enough to power multiple playoff runs. In reality, the results often disappointed. Big signings failed to deliver consistently, and team balance was frequently questioned.

This mismatch between star power and results reinforced the perception that Punjab were the IPL’s underachievers — glamorous names, but little silverware to show for it.

The Rebrand from Kings XI Punjab to Punjab Kings

Ahead of the 2021 season, the franchise decided to rebrand from Kings XI Punjab to Punjab Kings. The move was intended to mark a fresh beginning, creating a stronger, simpler identity that fans could rally behind.

While the new name and red-and-gold jersey gave the team a renewed image, the results on the field did not change dramatically. Inconsistent campaigns continued, and Punjab remained on the fringes of the playoffs.

The rebrand symbolised a team searching for stability, but until performances matched the new identity, the underdog tag stayed firmly in place.

Close Matches and Missed Opportunities

Few teams have lost as many heartbreakingly close matches as Punjab Kings. From last-over thrillers to Super Overs, Punjab’s history is littered with near misses.

Fans often recall moments when victory was within reach, only to slip away through a collapse or a piece of brilliance from the opposition. These repeated experiences deepened the underdog narrative — Punjab were the team that fought hard, but couldn’t quite close the deal.

The contrast with teams like Chennai Super Kings, who have a reputation for winning tight contests, only highlighted Punjab’s struggles. Where others showed composure, Punjab seemed to falter at the finish line.

Fan Loyalty Despite Struggles

What makes Punjab Kings special is that their fan base has never abandoned them. Despite the disappointments, the crowds in Mohali, Dharamsala, and across the Punjab region continue to show up and cheer passionately.

For many, supporting Punjab is about more than winning. It is about pride in representing the culture and identity of Punjab on a global stage. The underdog identity has, in some ways, deepened the emotional bond. Fans see themselves reflected in the fight of the team — always hopeful, always ready to dream of a turnaround.

That loyalty makes Punjab Kings one of the most endearing franchises, even without the trophies.

Media and Rival Fans’ Perspective

Media narratives have often reinforced the underdog label. Match previews frequently describe Punjab as unpredictable, exciting, but not favourites. Rival fans, too, often underestimate Punjab, seeing them as easier opponents compared to the heavyweights.

Ironically, this perception has sometimes worked in Punjab’s favour. When written off, they have produced memorable upsets, punching above their weight and delighting fans. Yet in the long run, the “plucky underdog” label has stuck harder than any other identity.

What Being an Underdog Really Means

Being called an underdog is not purely negative. In fact, it can provide a psychological edge. With little to lose, players are often free to play more aggressively, to surprise opponents, and to thrive without crushing pressure.

Punjab Kings have, at times, embodied this resilience. Their best moments have come when expectations were low, yet performances soared. The underdog narrative has become a symbol of their fight — the refusal to give up despite setbacks.

Can Punjab Kings Shed the Underdog Tag?

The big question for fans and analysts alike is: can Punjab Kings ever shed this tag? The answer lies in stability.

If the franchise can build a strong core of players, maintain consistency in leadership, and develop a winning culture, there is no reason why Punjab cannot transform their fortunes. A title win would certainly rewrite their story.

Yet even if Punjab were to win the IPL, the underdog identity may always remain part of their folklore. It has been woven into their journey from 2008 to today. The first title would be celebrated all the more because it came after years of struggle.

Conclusion: The Spirit of the Underdogs

Punjab Kings are called the underdogs of the IPL because of their inconsistent performances, their history of missed opportunities, and the heartbreaks of close contests. They have been glamorous but unpredictable, bold but unstable.

Yet within that story lies something uniquely endearing: a fighting spirit, a passionate fan base, and the ability to inspire against the odds. The underdog label may be a burden, but it is also part of what makes Punjab Kings special.

Until the day they finally lift the IPL trophy, Punjab Kings will continue to be cricket’s ultimate underdog story — and perhaps that is why so many love them.