NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer looked genuinely pleased as he arrived for the post-match presentation following a commanding 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants in Mullanpur on Sunday. The result propelled PBKS straight to the summit of the standings, with 5 wins from 6 matches, 11 points, and a healthy net run rate of +1.420.
After the emphatic win, Iyer pointed to a fun, competitive moment inside the dressing room that helped spark Punjab’s batting momentum. He said the team’s relaxed atmosphere was matched by a desire to go hard at the ball, with a six-hitting challenge setting the tone before the innings.
PBKS’ batting display was powered by Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly, who dismantled the LSG bowling attack and drove their side to a massive 254/7 in their 20 overs. Arya struck 93 while Connolly fired 87 as Punjab posted 254/7—the highest team total of the ongoing IPL season.
The pair then delivered a major breakthrough partnership, stitching together 182 runs in only 13.2 overs for the second wicket. Their rapid accumulation not only kept the pressure on Lucknow but also lifted PBKS beyond Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s earlier season-best of 250/3.
In response, Lucknow Super Giants managed 200/5, falling short by 54 runs despite the chase. Speaking during the presentation, Iyer praised the rhythm of the partnership, saying, “Exceptional partnership, some shots were jaw-dropping. Hitting fast bowlers off the back-foot straight. Composure in the middle overs was sensational.”
He also expanded on the mood in the dressing room, explaining, “Was talking with Cooper and Arya, said let’s compete for the most no. of sixes. Prize is my bat, doesn’t make sense but hope it’ll make us happy. When you let players be, I think they just deliver. That’s our mantra.”
Iyer further added that his approach is to allow batters to play in their own way, noting, “I don’t tell them how to go about their specific innings, they have their patterns set. Ricky Ponting motivates just before the game, I chip in, boys come in and deliver.”
Punjab Kings will now take on Delhi Capitals on April 25.
