Shreyas Iyer’s first IPL century helped Punjab Kings secure a seven-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants, ending their six-game losing streak and boosting their IPL 2026 playoffs chances. Iyer’s unbeaten 101 off 51 balls, including 11 fours and five sixes, guided Punjab to chase down LSG’s 196/6 in just 18 overs. He formed a crucial 140-run partnership with Prabhsimran Singh, who scored 69 off 39 balls.
This victory elevated PBKS to fourth place on the points table, with their playoff fate depending on the outcome of the Rajasthan Royals’ match against the Mumbai Indians. If RR wins, Punjab will be eliminated, but if MI prevails, Kolkata Knight Riders could still surpass PBKS on net run rate. A win for PBKS would set up an Eliminator clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad in New Chandigarh.
The chase began with Priyansh Arya’s early dismissal for a golden duck, but Iyer and Prabhsimran steadied the innings. Iyer’s aggressive batting, along with Prabhsimran’s inventive strokes, turned the game in PBKS’s favor. Despite Prabhsimran’s dismissal for 69, Iyer’s remarkable performance, which included three sixes in one over, sealed the victory for Punjab Kings.
For Iyer, the century marked a moment of relief and celebration, ending the team’s losing streak and keeping their playoff hopes alive. This win also confirmed Lucknow Super Giants’ position at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table, with their tenth defeat of the season.
