PBKS aims to continue their undefeated run.

Riyan Parag, a captain seeking form, must step up to challenge the formidable Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League encounter in Chandigarh on Tuesday.

Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting, which began last year, Punjab Kings have experienced a remarkable resurgence, transforming into the most consistent and reliable team in the league—qualities they had desired for so long.

Virat Kohli was long regarded as the chase-master due to his exceptional consistency, and now Iyer appears to be following in his footsteps. As a leader and batsman, he has exhibited impressive composure in high-pressure situations, guiding Punjab Kings to remain unbeaten in the tournament so far.

Iyer’s leadership has been stellar, but the entire team has also operated like a well-oiled machine. Last season, they managed to defend the lowest total in IPL history, and just last Saturday in New Delhi, Iyer and his team chased down a record 265-run target with remarkable ease.

The six victories in seven matches (one washout) can also be attributed to the explosive opening pair of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who set the stage for a historic chase at Kotla by scoring 116 runs in the powerplay.

Although the Punjab Kings bowlers faced a tough outing in that match, the batting-friendly conditions and small ground dimensions make it hard to hold them accountable.

As they play their last game of the season before hosting the final three league matches in Dharamsala, Punjab Kings are expected to overwhelm Rajasthan Royals.

The Royals have lost momentum in the mid-stages of the tournament after a stellar start of four consecutive wins. Despite impressive performances from rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the team has struggled to maintain consistency.

After eight games this season, captain Parag has struggled in the middle order, accumulating only 88 runs in eight innings at a disappointing strike rate of 112.82. The pressure on him continues to build with each passing game.

In their last match, Sunrisers Hyderabad comfortably chased down 229 runs against the Royals. Their fielding performance also left much to be desired.

“Each venue presents different challenges, and we don’t have clarity on how Chandigarh will play. They successfully chased a large score in Delhi, but Chandigarh is a new ground with unique conditions. I hope it doesn’t get out of hand,” Parag commented.

In their previous match at home, Punjab Kings had scored a massive 254 runs while batting first.

(With PTI inputs)