Priyansh Arya produced the kind of innings that changes the temperature of a match, and Punjab Kings (PBKS) rode that brilliance to a 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their IPL 2026 meeting on Sunday. The young left-hander’s 37-ball 93 drew particular praise from LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka, who appeared visibly impressed by what he had just witnessed. Moments after the contest, Goenka was seen making time to congratulate Priyansh personally, with footage suggesting he even spoke directly to him to pass on his compliments.
There was also plenty of goodwill away from the scoreboard. LSG captain Rishabh Pant was spotted engaged in a deep conversation with PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta, creating a contrast to the usual intensity of franchise rivalries. Fans watching the images online leaned into the wholesome vibe, highlighting how both sides’ leadership appeared comfortable sharing friendly moments with players from the opposition.
Quick facts
- PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs in IPL 2026 on Sunday.
- Priyansh Arya starred with a 37-ball 93.
- LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen congratulating Priyansh after the match.
- Rishabh Pant was pictured talking with PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta.
- PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer said backing openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya as “match-winners” boosts their confidence.
- Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have 211 runs each in IPL 2026 so far.
- PBKS remain the only unbeaten team in the competition.
Iyer on backing the openers
Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer explained that calling their top pair “match-winners” is not just a compliment—it’s part of how the team builds belief. In his view, that label helps Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya swing into their roles with clarity and freedom, rather than playing cautiously or second-guessing their instincts in the middle.
Iyer also spoke about the environment around the squad, describing how teams typically have shared spaces and how PBKS try to use those areas to strengthen togetherness. He said the group spends time as a unit before and after fixtures, and even during off days, to keep the relationships strong and the communication natural.
In a further message to his openers, Iyer emphasised staying true to themselves. When he speaks to them, his main point is to avoid trying to imitate anyone else—because at the level they’re playing, fearlessness and flair are most effective when they come from the player’s own style rather than a copybook approach.
He added that telling Prabhsimran and Priyansh they can decide games gives them immediate confidence. Once that mental backing is in place, they can go out and bat without feeling boxed in, and Iyer credited their consistent returns as a key reason PBKS have stayed in control this season.
The numbers underline the confidence: both Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have piled up 211 runs each in the ongoing IPL 2026 campaign. With results like the one on Sunday, Punjab Kings have continued to hold their place as the tournament’s only unbeaten side.
