Dharamshala: Punjab Kings got off to a blazing start against Delhi Capitals in the 55th match of IPL 2026 being played at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.
After being invited to bat first, Punjab openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh provided their side with a rapid start.
Punjab entered the match aiming to climb to the top of the IPL points table with a victory.
Delhi make five changes to playing XI
Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and elected to bowl first.
Speaking after the toss, Axar said Delhi wanted to take advantage of the fresh pitch and possible early movement with the new ball.
He also confirmed five changes in the playing XI, with Porel, Sahil Parakh, David Miller, Madhav Tiwari and Aqib Nabi coming into the side.
Axar admitted Delhi had failed to capitalise on key moments in earlier matches but said the team would focus on playing positive cricket without worrying too much about results.
Punjab looking to regain momentum
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer said the team was trying not to overthink the points table and instead focus on backing its own game awareness and execution under pressure.
He confirmed that Lockie Ferguson missed the match due to a minor injury and had been replaced by Ben Dwarshuis.
Punjab Kings currently sit fourth on the points table with six wins from 10 matches. After remaining unbeaten in their opening seven games, PBKS have suffered three consecutive defeats and are looking to return to winning ways.
Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, have lost seven of their 11 matches, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.
