Punjab completed one of the biggest chases in IPL history, reaching 223-4 in just 18.5 overs—its second-highest successful run chase—securing a third win in four matches this season.
The foundation for the chase was laid by openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who tore into Hyderabad’s bowling attack with explosive half-centuries. Arya smashed 57 off just 21 balls, bringing up his fifty in a blistering 16 deliveries, while Singh added 51 off 24 balls. The pair raced to 93 runs inside the powerplay, setting the tone for the pursuit of 220.
Despite a brief fightback led by left-arm wrist spinner Shivang Kumar, who claimed 3-33, Punjab maintained control. Kumar removed both openers in quick succession and later dismissed Cooper Connelly, reducing Punjab to 128-3.
From there, Iyer took charge. Anchoring the innings with authority, he combined with Nehal Wadhera in a crucial 69-run partnership, scoring the bulk of the runs with a rapid 54 off 21 balls during the stand. Iyer brought up his half-century in 24 balls and remained unbeaten as Punjab crossed the target with seven balls to spare.
Earlier, Hyderabad posted a formidable 219-6, powered by a sensational knock from Abhishek Sharma, who blasted 74 off 28 balls, including eight sixes and five fours. He reached his half-century in just 18 deliveries.
Travis Head also contributed with 38 off 23 balls, as Hyderabad’s openers put on a massive 105-run stand in the powerplay. The game saw a record 16 sixes combined in the powerplay overs—an IPL first.
A surprise bowling move paid off for Punjab when Shashank Singh was introduced and picked up 2-20, dismissing both Head and Sharma in quick succession to slow Hyderabad’s momentum.
Though Hyderabad crossed the 200-run mark, it was not enough to contain a relentless Punjab batting lineup, which sealed another emphatic chase in what is shaping up to be a strong campaign.
In Saturday’s later fixture, Chennai Super Kings are set to face Delhi Capitals.