Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer scores maiden IPL century to end losing streak
The win moves Punjab into fourth place on the IPL 2026 points table, keeping their playoff hopes alive despite external dependencies on other match results.
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer delivered a pivotal unbeaten 101 to lead his side to a seven-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026. The win at the Ekana Cricket Stadium ended a six-match losing streak for the franchise and kept their qualification hopes alive as the league stage nears its conclusion.
Iyer’s knock, which included a towering six to mark his maiden IPL century, anchored a chase of 196 runs. His innings was bolstered by a 140-run partnership for the third wicket with Prabhsimran Singh, which shifted momentum in Punjab’s favour after a shaky start that saw early wickets fall.
The victory moved Punjab Kings into fourth place on the IPL 2026 points table with 15 points from 14 matches. However, their playoff fate remains dependent on other results. If Rajasthan Royals defeat Mumbai Indians, they will secure the fourth spot, eliminating Punjab. If Rajasthan loses, Punjab can qualify provided Delhi Capitals defeat Kolkata Knight Riders.
Iyer became the fourth captain in IPL history to score a century while chasing a target, joining an elite group that includes Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, and Sanju Samson. He also became the third captain in Punjab Kings’ franchise history to achieve this feat.
Lucknow Super Giants had posted 196/6 in their 20 overs, powered by Josh Inglis’s 72 off 44 balls. Despite the strong total, the hosts lost momentum during the middle overs as Punjab’s bowlers tightened the scoring rate and picked up regular wickets.
The result marks a significant turnaround for Punjab, who had previously suffered a defeat to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. The win solidifies their position in the top four, though they must now wait for the outcomes of concurrent matches to confirm their place in the playoffs.
