Aakash Chopra didn’t hold back in his criticism of Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer after Friday’s IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings. Despite Yuzvendra Chahal delivering 21 runs in three overs with a wicket, Iyer opted not to bowl him in the fourth over, bringing in Priyansh Arya in the 18th over. Chopra argued that even if the change was meant to tackle Shivam Dube, it was an underuse of Chahal’s potential.

“How did the only bowler who didn’t concede a single boundary not finish his quota of overs? The only spinner. The man is Yuzi Chahal. Yes, Dube was there. But didn’t (Ravindra) Jadeja dismiss him in Guwahati? 17 overs of pace meant one extra fielder inside the circle for the last 2 overs,” Chopra posted on X (formerly Twitter).

The choice didn’t backfire, as Punjab Kings triumphed by five wickets.

The Punjab Kings’ captain, Shreyas Iyer, lauded his team’s blazing start and collective batting display in chasing down 200-plus against CSK, highlighting the players’ belief in themselves and a mindset focused on internal dynamics rather than outside pressure.

Punjab Kings once again showcased their dominance in 200-plus chases, achieving the milestone for the ninth time as Priyansh Arya and Shreyas Iyer tore apart the Chennai Super Kings attack. Arya began explosively, scoring 39 off 11 balls, helping PBKS reach fifty quickly, while Iyer anchored the chase with a measured and assertive innings, reaching a fifty off 26 balls.

“Of course, there’s always some worry before stepping onto the field. But the way we began was exceptional.

Priyansh and Prabh are doing a great job at the start, setting the platform for the rest of us. Their batting over the years helps maintain the team’s rhythm. I’m happy that everyone has had a chance to bat in the first two games as it builds confidence. Even under pressure, players know how to handle it. It’s not something we planned outside. We just decided in the dressing room to focus on impressing each other rather than anyone else. It also gives a certain clarity,” Iyer said after the match.