Punjab Kings’ dream IPL run unravels as Dharamsala exposes batting flaws and playoff hopes wobble

Punjab began IPL 2026 in dominant fashion, winning six of their first seven games with one washout, as Iyer’s aggressive leadership and fearless batting approach drew widespread praise.

The team’s swagger — amplified by viral reels featuring Karan Aujla’s “Hukam” and celebrations involving players like Arshdeep Singh and Harpreet Brar — reflected a side brimming with confidence.

Even head coach Ricky Ponting appeared swept up in the momentum.

But that momentum has vanished dramatically. Following Thursday’s defeat, PBKS have now gone five matches without a win, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

Dharamsala exposes Punjab’s weaknesses

The turning point appears to have come in Dharamsala, where the lively conditions have exposed flaws in Punjab’s ultra-aggressive batting blueprint.

Unlike flatter batting tracks elsewhere this season, Dharamsala’s cooler weather and seam-friendly surface have consistently aided fast bowlers. PBKS, however, continued to attack recklessly instead of adapting.

They first lost to Delhi Capitals after failing to defend 210, and then suffered another damaging defeat against Mumbai Indians, who comfortably chased down 201.

Punjab’s in-form batters — including Prabhsimran Singh, Cooper Connolly and Iyer — have all struggled to maintain their earlier scoring tempo on the tougher surface.

While Iyer scored a fifty against Delhi and Prabhsimran reached a half-century against Mumbai, both innings came at noticeably slower strike rates.

Punjab also underestimated medium pacers on helpful surfaces. Against Delhi, Madhav Tiwari hurt them badly, while against Mumbai, Shardul Thakur ripped through their batting with four wickets.

Playoff race tightens

PBKS now face a must-win clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala, with Virat Kohli in ominous form for RCB.

Their final league game will come against Lucknow Super Giants on May 23, but Punjab will be desperate to avoid leaving qualification hopes hanging until the final day.

After weeks of fearless cricket, Punjab now find themselves under mounting pressure — and with clear batting issues they must solve quickly.