Mumbai, April 19: In a thrilling encounter, Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured a 54-run victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 29th match of IPL 2026, thanks to a remarkable 182-run partnership between Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Captain Shreyas Iyer revealed that he does not dictate how Priyansh and Connolly should play their innings.
After the match, Iyer commended his team’s performance, stating that the batsmen displayed extraordinary skills, with some shots being truly astonishing. He emphasized that executing such shots requires immense courage and composure.
Iyer shared that he playfully discussed with Cooper and Priyansh about who would hit the most sixes this season, and both players are eager for the challenge. He remarked, “I was just talking to Cooper and Priyansh, challenging each other on who will hit the most sixes this season. They are ready for it. When you allow them to play their natural game and express themselves on the field, they perform exceptionally well. I don’t tell them how to play their innings. They have their own routine and style. Ricky (Ponting) talks to them before the match, and I also share my thoughts, but that’s about it.”
Regarding the bowling unit, Iyer noted that most of the team’s bowlers are of international caliber, and their performance speaks for itself. He believes the key to success lies in proper execution. The captain mentioned that when the team formulates its strategy based on the pitch conditions, it instills confidence and satisfaction among the players.
In the match held at Maharaja Yadavendra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Punjab Kings batted first, scoring 254 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. They lost Prabhsimran Singh (0) early on, but Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly built a solid partnership, amassing 182 runs for the second wicket in just 80 balls.
Cooper Connolly scored 87 runs off 46 balls, hitting 7 sixes and 8 fours, while Priyansh Arya contributed 93 runs from 37 balls, including 9 sixes and 4 fours. Marcus Stoinis added 29 runs. For LSG, Prince Yadav and Manimaran Siddharth took 2 wickets each.
In response, Lucknow Super Giants managed to score only 200 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 20 overs. Captain Rishabh Pant scored 43 runs off 23 balls, while Aiden Markram contributed 42 runs. Mitchell Marsh also chipped in with 40 runs. Marco Jansen from the opposition claimed 2 wickets.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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