Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Mithun Manhas has praised Punjab Kings (PBKS) for their successful start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 by defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium. He commended PBKS for their first win at their home ground and expressed confidence in the team’s future performance under Shubman Gill’s leadership.
Punjab Kings clinched a thrilling three-wicket win over GT, chasing down 163 runs with five balls to spare. The victory was fueled by a strong team effort, highlighted by Cameron Connolly’s unbeaten half-century on debut and a disciplined bowling performance led by Vijaykumar Vyshak and Yuzvendra Chahal.
Vyshak’s 3/34 and Chahal’s 2/28, supported by a well-executed bowling strategy, restricted Gujarat Titans to 162/6 in their 20 overs. In response, PBKS made a solid start, reaching 55/1 in the powerplay, with Prabhsimran Singh and debutant Cameron Connolly forming a crucial partnership to steer the chase. Despite a brief stumble losing four quick wickets, Connolly’s composed half-century guided PBKS to victory.
Cameron Connolly’s exceptional performance, along with contributions from Xavier Barlett and Marco Jansen, secured the win for PBKS with five deliveries remaining. The team is set to face Chennai Super Kings next, while Gujarat Titans will play against Rajasthan Royals at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on April 4.
