Punjab Kings may have started their IPL 2026 journey with a win but the night wasn’t without consequences for their captain. Shreyas Iyer was fined Rs 12 lakh after his team failed to maintain the required over-rate during their match against Gujarat Titans. Since it was the team’s first such offence this season under Article 2.22 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate rules, the penalty was limited to a monetary fine.
Despite this setback, Punjab Kings had plenty to celebrate on the field. They secured a close three-wicket win over Gujarat Titans, chasing down a target of 163 with five balls remaining. The standout performer was young left-hander Cooper Connolly who impressed on his IPL debut with a brilliant 72 runs off 44 balls. His innings, combined with a solid 37 off 24 balls from Prabhsimran Singh, laid a strong foundation with a 76-run partnership for the second wicket.
Earlier in the match, Punjab Kings chose to bowl first and managed to restrict Gujarat Titans to 162 for 6. Yuzvendra Chahal played a key role with figures of 2 for 28 in 4 overs, controlling the middle phase of the innings. Vijaykumar Vyshak also contributed with 3 for 34. For Gujarat, Shubman Gill scored 39 off 27 balls, while Jos Buttler added 38 off 33, but their overall batting effort lacked momentum.
During the chase, Punjab Kings faced some tense moments as Prasidh Krishna’s 3 for 29 brought Gujarat back into the game. Shreyas Iyer hit a couple of sixes but couldn’t stay long and quick wickets increased the pressure. However, Cooper Connolly stayed composed till the end, hitting five fours and five sixes to guide his team home.
Punjab Kings will next face Chennai Super Kings on April 3 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where they will look to continue their winning momentum.
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