IPL 2026: Punjab Kings continued their impressive start to the IPL 2026, moving to the top of the points table with a convincing five-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.
Chasing a massive target of 210, PBKS reached 210 for 5 in just 18.4 overs, securing their second consecutive win. Skipper Shreyas Iyer played a crucial role with a rapid 29-ball 50, while the top order batters Priyansh Arya (39 off 11 balls), Prabhsimran Singh (43 off 34 balls), and Cooper Connolly (36 off 22) provided solid start.
CSK ‘s rising star Ayush Mhatre grabbed the spotlight after Shreyas Iyer’s side invited CSK to bat first. CSK posted a competitive 209 for 5 in their 20 overs. The innings was powered by a sensational display from young batter Ayush Mhatre, who smashed a blistering 73 off 43 balls, laced with sixe boundaries and five sixes that lit up the Chepauk evening.
Ayush Mhatre and Ruturaj Gaikwad stitched crucial 96-run partnership
Mhatre, walking in early after Sanju Samson departed at 7 off 7 balls, and stitched a crucial 96-run partnership for the second wicket with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (28 off 22 balls). This stand laid a strong foundation on a pitch that offered some assistance to spinners later. Mhatre reached his fifty off just 29 balls, showcased his fearless approach
The middle and lower order kept the momentum going as Sarfaraz Khan, who went unsold in IPL 2025 entertained the crowd with a explosive 32 off just 12 balls, while Shivam Dube remained unbeaten on 45 off 27 balls, providing the finishing touches with powerful hitting.
Despite these contributions, CSK could not push beyond 209, as PBKS’s bowlers, led by Vijaykumar Vyshak (2 for 38), picked up key wickets at crucial junctures, including the dismissal of Mhatre.
Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran, and Shreyas Iyer powered PBKS to an easy chase
Openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh (43) gave a flying start, with Arya contributing 11-ball 39. The early momentum put CSK under pressure, however skipper Shreyas Iyer then took control, anchoring the innings while accelerating when needed. His half-century came off just 29 balls. Iyer found good support from the middle order, including contributions from Cooper Connolly and others, as PBKS maintained a healthy run rate throughout.
CSK’s bowlers, including Anshul Kamboj (who took 2 for 43), tried to fight back with tight spells and breakthroughs, but the required rate was in control for PBKS. The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals yet always had batters capable of rebuilding or finishing the job. The chase was completed with 8 balls to spare, highlighting Punjab’s depth and composure under lights.
