Australian fast bowler Xavier Bartlett continues his promising IPL journey with Punjab Kings (PBKS) after being retained for the IPL 2026 season at ₹80 Lakhs. Known for his sharp swing, disciplined lines, and ability to strike early in the innings, Bartlett adds valuable depth to PBKS’ pace attack.
Bartlett made his IPL debut in 2025 and impressed with his energy, attitude, and wicket-taking potential. PBKS sees him as a long-term asset and retained him for a second straight year.
IPL 2026 Contract Details
IPL 2026 Price & Team
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Team | Punjab Kings (PBKS) |
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹80 Lakhs |
| Retained Status | Retained |
| IPL Debut | 2025 |
| Role | Bowler |
| Batting Style | Right-handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm Fast-Medium |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Date of Birth | 17 December 1998 |
| Matches Played | 11 |
PBKS’ retention confirms their confidence in Bartlett’s growing potential as an impact fast bowler.
Xavier Bartlett IPL Auction Price History
| Year | Price | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ₹80.00 Lakhs | Punjab Kings |
| 2026 | ₹80.00 Lakhs (Retained) | Punjab Kings |
Xavier Bartlett: The Australian Pacer Rising in IPL
Xavier Bartlett entered IPL 2025 as a young but highly rated fast bowler who had already shown promise in Australia’s domestic setup and international matches. With natural swing and good control, he quickly became a reliable new-ball option.
His tall frame, strong wrist position, and ability to hit consistent lengths have helped him trouble batters in the early overs. Under the guidance of Ricky Ponting and alongside premier pacers like Lockie Ferguson and Marco Jansen, Bartlett continues to grow as a T20 specialist.
Read Also:- IPL All Team Coaches and Their Salaries
Batting Career Overview (IPL)
IPL Batting Stats
| Season | Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | Strike Rate | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 4 | 11 | 11 | 11.00 | 73.33 | 1 | 0 |
| All IPL | 4 | 11 | 11 | 11.00 | 73.33 | 1 | 0 |
Even as a lower-order player, Bartlett can chip in with small but important runs.
Bowling Career Overview (IPL)
IPL Bowling Stats
| Season | Matches | Balls | Runs | Wickets | Best | Average | Economy | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 7 | 214 | 393 | 5 | 2/9 | 59.40 | 11.57 | 30.80 |
| 2025 | 4 | 60 | 96 | 2 | 1/26 | 48.00 | 9.60 | 30.00 |
| All IPL | 11 | 214 | 393 | 7 | 2/9 | 56.14 | 11.01 | 30.50 |
Bartlett’s numbers reflect early promise, especially in a competitive league where young pacers develop rapidly.
Fielding Performance
| Season | Matches | Catches | Stumpings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 7 | 7 | 0 |
| 2025 | 4 | 5 | 0 |
| All IPL | 10 | 12 | 0 |
His sharp reflexes have already made him a reliable fielder inside the ring.
Strengths & Playing Style of Xavier Bartlett
- New-Ball Swing: Can swing the ball both ways and trouble top-order batters.
- Hard-Length Specialist: Hits uncomfortable lengths with good bounce.
- Death Overs Learning Curve: Improving with slower balls, wide yorkers, and cutters.
- High Energy Fielder: Saves runs and holds crucial catches.
- Long-Term Potential: Young pacer with room to grow under experienced coaches.
Impact & Expectations for IPL 2026
Bartlett’s retention signals PBKS’ continued belief in his abilities. As PBKS pushes for a strong 2026 season, Bartlett is expected to play the role of a new-ball enforcer who provides early breakthroughs and supports the middle-overs attack.
If he continues to develop and adapt to Indian conditions, he could become a regular feature in PBKS’ playing XI.
Conclusion
Xavier Bartlett’s journey in the IPL is just beginning, but his talent, swing, and pace make him one of the most exciting young pacers to watch. With PBKS retaining him for IPL 2026, the franchise is betting on his long-term impact and growth.
