Punjab Kings’ IPL 2026 campaign is hanging by a thread after a crushing 23-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala on Sunday. The loss marked PBKS’ sixth straight defeat and pushed the franchise dangerously close to elimination from the playoff race. Just a few weeks ago, Punjab looked like genuine title contenders, but their dramatic collapse has now left them relying on other results to stay alive in the tournament.
The frustration inside the Punjab camp was impossible to ignore after the match. Head coach Ricky Ponting sat alone in the dugout, visibly disappointed as another crucial opportunity slipped away. Captain Shreyas Iyer was later seen in an intense conversation with co-owner Preity Zinta on the field, reflecting the growing concern surrounding the team’s alarming slump.
RCB completely dominated the contest after posting a massive 222/4 in 20 overs. Venkatesh Iyer led the charge with a blistering unbeaten 73, while Virat Kohli continued his outstanding form with a fluent 58 off 37 balls.
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Punjab’s bowling attack once again struggled under pressure and failed to pick up wickets at key moments — an issue that has repeatedly hurt them during this losing streak.
Ricky Ponting sitting alone in the dugout dejected. pic.twitter.com/N0aZjc3sIA
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 17, 2026
Seeing Preity Zinta man and Shreyas this sad really hurts 🥺😭💔
— Shreyass Eraa (@IyerShreyass) May 17, 2026
Speaking after the match, Shreyas admitted Punjab lost control during the powerplay itself. He acknowledged that RCB’s aggressive approach put the bowlers on the back foot early, allowing the visitors to build momentum throughout the innings. The PBKS skipper also pointed to his side’s poor start with the bat, with early wickets derailing the chase despite fighting knocks from Shashank Singh, who smashed 56 off 27 balls, and Marcus Stoinis, who contributed 37.
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Despite the mounting pressure, Shreyas remained optimistic about Punjab’s chances. The captain insisted the team would continue fighting until the very end, saying there is still hope as long as opportunities remain in the tournament.
