PBKS paints town red with second home win of the season

Chandigarh: Punjab Kings secured their second home victory of the 2026 Indian Premier League season with a comfortable six-wicket win at the New Chandigarh stadium, buoyed by a sea of red in the stands and an electric atmosphere throughout the evening.The venue, jampacked with Punjab Kings supporters, provided encouragement throughout, from the opening countdown to the final moments of the chase. The finishing flourish came from Shashank Singh, who, in partnership with skipper Shreyas Iyer, powered the team across the line with composure.The match witnessed a blistering start from Sunrisers Hyderabad, courtesy of the explosive duo Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Popularly dubbed "Travishek" by fans, the pair unleashed a ferocious assault during the power play, racing past the hundred-run mark within six overs of power play and putting Punjab bowlers under immense pressure.However, the innings lost momentum soon after the power play, allowing Punjab to regain some control. Sunrisers eventually posted a formidable total of 219.Punjab Kings' chase mirrored a similar pattern. Openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya delivered a strong start, both registering half-centuries and ensuring a high-scoring power play for the hosts. The tempo dipped in the middle overs, but it was revived emphatically by captain Shreyas Iyer, whose aggressive 69 off 33 balls steered the side into a commanding position.Sombre noteBeyond the on-field action, the evening also carried a sombre note. Punjab Kings players donned black armbands in solidarity with families affected by the recent tragedy in Vrindavan.Off field chaos The match, while a spectacle on the field, was marred by logistical challenges outside the stadium. Several spectators reported issues with vehicle management, forcing many to walk considerable distances to reach the venue. Harsimran, a fan who travelled from Panchkula, recounted his experience: "My cab was stopped 2 kilometres before the venue. While so-called VIP vehicles were allowed special access, many like me had to walk towards the flyover, cross it, and then proceed to the gates.Despite the off-field inconveniences, the match stood out as a thrilling contest marked by high-quality cricket and overwhelming home support, reinforcing Punjab Kings' stronghold at their New Chandigarh base. Famous artists Arjan Dhillon, Ammy Virk, Gurinder Gill and Mahira Sharma were there to witness the match as well.