Vishnu Vinod enters the IPL 2026 season as an experienced wicketkeeper-batter who continues his journey with Punjab Kings (PBKS). Known for his aggressive stroke play and ability to clear the ropes, he is one of Kerala’s standout domestic performers. Despite limited IPL appearances over the years, his domestic achievements and explosive hitting capabilities keep him in the mix as a strong squad option.
PBKS retained him for IPL 2026, showing faith in his wicketkeeping skills, finishing ability, and overall experience.
IPL 2026 Team & Price
Vishnu Vinod IPL 2026 Team
- Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Vishnu Vinod IPL 2026 Price
- ₹95 Lakhs (Retained)
PBKS kept him at the same price from the previous mega auction, making him an important wicketkeeping backup and lower-order power-hitter for the upcoming season.
Read more: IPL 2026 Auction Players List: All Teams
Vishnu Vinod IPL Profile
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vishnu Vinod |
| Born | 02 December 1993 |
| Role | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| IPL Debut | 2017 |
| IPL 2026 Team | Punjab Kings |
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹95 Lakhs |
Career Journey & Background
Vishnu Vinod is a well-known figure in Kerala’s domestic cricket scene. A talented wicketkeeper-batter, he gained recognition with exceptional performances in Vijay Hazare Trophy tournaments.
Highlights from his cricket journey include:
- Leading Kerala’s batting charts in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy with 508 runs in 8 matches, including 3 centuries.
- Making his first-class debut in the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy.
- Displaying versatility, batting at various positions from the top order to the lower middle order.
- Featuring for multiple IPL teams, including RCB (2017), DC (2021), SRH (2022) and MI (2023–24).
His aggressive batting style and flexible wicketkeeping abilities eventually helped him earn a strong contract with PBKS, who acquired him in the IPL 2025 mega auction for ₹95 lakh.
Vishnu Vinod IPL Career Stats
Overall IPL Batting Record
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Highest Score | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 56 | 9.33 | 98.25 | 30 | 3 | 3 |
Fielding Record
| Matches | Catches | Stumpings |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 1 | 2 |
Bowling Record
He has bowled 0 overs, with no wickets in his IPL career.
Season-Wise Batting Performance
Detailed Performance Table
| Season | Matches | Runs | HS | Average | Strike Rate | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 3 | 37 | 30 | 12.33 | 119.35 | 2 | 2 |
| 2017 | 3 | 19 | 9 | 6.33 | 73.07 | 1 | 1 |
| All IPL | 6 | 56 | 30 | 9.33 | 98.25 | 3 | 3 |
Vishnu Vinod Auction Price History
| Year | Price | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | ₹20 Lakhs | DC |
| 2022 | ₹50 Lakhs | SRH |
| 2023 | ₹20 Lakhs | MI |
| 2024 | ₹20 Lakhs | MI |
| 2025 | ₹95 Lakhs | PBKS |
| 2026 | ₹95 Lakhs (Retained) | PBKS |
Vishnu Vinod – Last 10 IPL Innings
| Match | Runs (Balls) |
|---|---|
| Qualifier 2 vs GT | 5 (7) |
| Match 63 vs LSG | 2 (4) |
| Match 57 vs MI | 30 (20) |
While opportunities have been limited, his standout innings of 30 off 20 balls showcased his attacking intent and finishing potential.
Read more: IPL 2026 Retention Players List
Role & Importance for PBKS in IPL 2026
Why PBKS Retained Him
- Strong domestic T20 experience
- Reliable wicketkeeper option
- Ability to hit big shots in lower middle order
- Offers tactical flexibility as an Impact Player
- Adds squad depth and experience
Expected Role in IPL 2026
Vishnu Vinod is expected to contribute in:
- Situational finishing roles
- Providing backup for the primary wicketkeeper
- Filling middle-order gaps when required
- Offering hitting power against spin
His retention strengthens PBKS’ bench with an experienced and explosive domestic batter.
Conclusion
Vishnu Vinod’s IPL journey reflects perseverance, domestic excellence, and adaptability. Although his IPL appearances have been limited, his retention by PBKS for IPL 2026 shows trust in his ability to contribute as a wicketkeeper-batter and lower-order hitter. With strong domestic numbers and improved form, IPL 2026 offers him another chance to make meaningful contributions on the big stage.
PBKS will count on his energy, experience, and batting power as they aim for a competitive season.
