In the IPL 2026 match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced a 33-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). PBKS opener Priyansh Arya struggled against short balls, leading to his dismissal by SRH captain Pat Cummins. Former Indian cricketer R Ashwin suggested that while the batting order should remain unchanged, Arya needs to develop a tactical approach to counter this recurring issue. He recommended that Arya seek advice from head coach Ricky Ponting, a master of the pull shot. SRH, after opting to bat first, posted an impressive total of 235 for 4, with Heinrich Klaasen scoring 69 off 43 and Ishan Kishan contributing 55 off 32. PBKS's chase faltered early, leaving Cooper Connolly's unbeaten century (107 not out off 59) as a lone highlight in an otherwise disappointing performance.