'Bring Dhoni at least' - Fans react as PBKS thrash CSK by 5 wickets in IPL 2026

Shreyas Iyer, captain of Punjab Kings, delivered an impressive performance against Chennai Super Kings on Friday. Chasing a challenging target of 210, he scored a fluent 50 off 29 balls, guiding his side into a strong position at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The season holds added significance for Iyer as he looks to make a return to India’s T20 setup.

Despite CSK posting a competitive total of 209/5, PBKS completed the chase comfortably in 18.2 overs. CSK’s bowling attack struggled to control the scoring rate, with Matt Henry conceding 54 runs in his four overs and Anshul Kamboj giving away 43 runs in 3.4 overs, allowing PBKS to maintain momentum throughout the innings.

The foundation for the successful chase was laid by Priyansh Arya, who provided a blistering start with 39 runs off just 11 balls, including three fours and four sixes. His aggressive approach helped PBKS cross the 60-run mark within the powerplay. Arya was rightly named Player of the Match for his match-winning contribution, as PBKS secured a five-wicket victory and registered back-to-back wins in IPL 2026.

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Key moments that defined the CSK vs PBKS clash

Punjab Kings made chasing 210 look easy as they beat Chennai Super Kings by five wickets with eight balls to spare at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, April 3.

Priyansh Arya gave a blazing start, scoring 39 runs off just 11 balls with several boundaries and sixes. His quick innings set the tone for the chase. At the other end, Prabhsimran Singh supported well, making sure Punjab stayed on track.

Even when Matt Henry removed Arya, Punjab did not lose momentum. Cooper Connolly tried to settle in, but a mix-up led to Prabhsimran’s dismissal. Still, the team remained calm and in control.

Shreyas Iyer then anchored the innings with a composed half-century. He handled both spin and pace well, hitting some big shots and rotating the strike smartly. His performance reassured the team and kept them ahead in the chase.

Even when Iyer and Nehal Wadhera were dismissed on consecutive balls, Punjab’s depth in batting made sure CSK never got back in the game. With Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, and Marco Jansen still to bat, the chase was always under control.

For CSK, the loss continues a worrying pattern at home, marking their sixth straight defeat at Chepauk. Ayush Mhatre was their best batter, scoring 73 off 43 balls with boundaries, while Shivam Dube added 45 off 27 balls to push the total to 209/5, a score that proved just par.

On the bowling side, Yuzvendra Chahal bowled well but missed wickets due to dropped chances. CSK’s bowlers struggled to contain runs when it mattered, and small mistakes cost them control of the match.

With both batting and bowling failing at different times, CSK’s problems are growing. Even Chepauk no longer feels like a stronghold. Ruturaj Gaikwad and others will need to step up quickly, while Sarfaraz Khan remains one of the few consistent performers.

The match highlighted how well-structured and deep the Punjab Kings’ batting line-up is, while CSK will need to find answers fast if they are to turn their season around.

Fans Criticise CSK’s Back-to-Back Loss on Social Media

Fans have taken to social media to express their frustration over the Chennai Super Kings’ back-to-back losses. Many criticised the team’s batting and bowling, saying they did not perform well when it mattered. Some fans also questioned the team's strategy and called for players like Ruturaj Gaikwad to step up.

Here is how the netizens reacted: