Punjab Kings delivered a ruthless batting display in Mullanpur on Sunday, overwhelming Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs. Skipper Shreyas Iyer pointed to a light-hearted “six-hitting” challenge in the dressing room as the spark behind their explosive approach. The result was a season-high 254/7, with Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly turning the innings into a statement.
Quick facts
- Match: Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants in Mullanpur on Sunday
- Punjab Kings score: 254/7, the highest total of the current IPL season
- Result: Punjab Kings won by 54 runs
- Key knocks: Priyansh Arya 93; Cooper Connolly 87
- Notable stand: 182 runs in 13.2 overs for the second wicket
- Lucknow Super Giants score: 200/5
- LSG opener tweak: Ayush Badoni scored 35 off 21 balls as part of a new opening combination
- Player of the Match: Priyansh Arya
Iyer said the team’s batting burst had plenty to do with the mood inside the camp, where players were encouraged to compete for the most sixes. He also described the partnership as “exceptional,” praising how the pair struck quickly while staying composed through the middle overs.
The captain added that the intent wasn’t just to swing mindlessly, but to hit fast bowlers from the back foot with straight, clean contact. He further explained that Arya and Connolly were given space to play within their own strengths, calling it part of Punjab’s guiding mantra.
According to Iyer, he had a conversation with both batters before the game and framed the challenge around sixes, joking that the “prize” was his own bat. He stressed that when players are allowed to settle into their routines, they tend to deliver more freely on match day.
Second-wicket fireworks
With Arya and Connolly combining for a dominant second-wicket effort, Punjab shifted gears rapidly. Together they amassed 182 runs in only 13.2 overs, turning pressure into momentum and setting up a platform that proved too big for Lucknow to chase.
Iyer also discussed the team’s preparation and leadership environment, noting that Ricky Ponting motivates the side just before the match. He said he then adds his bit as well, before the players come in and execute the plan.
On the bowling front, Punjab completed the job after the batting onslaught. The bowlers held Lucknow to 200/5, sealing a comprehensive victory and ensuring the opposition never got a proper rhythm in the chase.
Iyer said most of Punjab’s bowlers are international players with substantial experience, and that the side works with specific plans against particular batters. He underlined that execution is the key and urged the group not to become complacent, even after strong starts.
Lucknow’s response and batting gamble
Lucknow skipper Rishabh Pant acknowledged that there were concerns in the bowling unit after conceding 254 runs. He felt it was difficult to isolate a single problem area, but insisted that despite some positive moments with the bat, the bowling department had clear issues to address.
Lucknow also experimented with a fresh opening setup, bringing Ayush Badoni in to partner at the top. Badoni made 35 off 21 balls, with the plan being to go out and play with freedom rather than treating it as a rigid selection decision made on the spot.
Pant said the approach was pre-decided, aimed at easing pressure on the top order. While Lucknow backed its team belief, he credited Punjab for playing hard, disciplined cricket that ultimately overpowered the chase.
Arya’s calm, power and mindset
Priyansh Arya, named Player of the Match, said he batted slightly beyond the powerplay to contribute as much as possible for Punjab. He described the satisfaction of shaping the innings and noted that he doesn’t focus on practicing six-hitting specifically, instead concentrating on timing the ball effectively.
The 24-year-old also revealed that he prefers to keep conversations to a minimum while batting. He explained that too much talking can add extra thoughts in his mind, and he feels it’s better to stay quiet so he can play with a clearer, sharper focus.
