Punjab Kings continued their dream run in IPL 2026 with a commanding 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants in Match 29 at New Chandigarh. In a run-fest that produced 454 total runs, PBKS smashed 254/7, the highest total of the season so far, before restricting LSG to 200/5.
Punjab were put in to bat first after Rishabh Pant won the toss, but the decision quickly backfired. After the early wicket of Prabhsimran Singh, the innings exploded thanks to a sensational partnership between Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. The left-handed duo added 182 runs for the second wicket in just 80 balls, tearing apart the Lucknow bowling attack.
Arya was at his destructive best, hammering 93 off just 37 balls, packed with towering sixes and fearless strokeplay. Connolly matched him nearly shot for shot, smashing 87 off 46 deliveries in a brutal counterattack. Their partnership completely shifted the momentum and gave Punjab a platform for a massive total.
Even after both set batters departed, PBKS finished strongly to reach 254/7, with late cameos ensuring Lucknow were left with a mountain to climb. Prince Yadav was one of the few bowlers to emerge with credit, picking up two wickets while keeping things relatively tight.
Chasing 255, Lucknow needed a flying start and got some momentum in patches, reaching 61/1 in the powerplay. However, Punjab kept striking at regular intervals to deny any sustained challenge. Nicholas Pooran’s struggles continued as Marco Jansen removed him cheaply, a key moment in the chase.
Captain Rishabh Pant and the middle order tried to rebuild, but the asking rate kept climbing beyond control. Aiden Markram fought till the end with an unbeaten 42, while youngster Mukul Choudhary added 21, but the target proved far too steep. Lucknow eventually closed on 200/5, well short despite crossing the 200-mark.
Punjab’s bowlers deserve credit for maintaining discipline on a batting paradise. Their fielding energy and timely wickets ensured Lucknow never truly threatened the chase.
Player of the Match: Priyansh Arya for his electrifying 93 off 37 balls.
Key Highlights
- PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs
- PBKS scored 254/7 – highest total of IPL 2026
- Priyansh Arya: 93 (37)
- Cooper Connolly: 87 (46)
- LSG finished 200/5
- Total runs in match: 454
