Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced a setback against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their IPL 2026 match held in New Chandigarh, marking a significant loss that exposed weaknesses in their bowling attack. With this defeat, PBKS has now conceded over 200 runs five times this season, raising concerns about their ability to defend scores. Captain Shreyas Iyer acknowledged that while the batters performed well, scoring 222 runs, the bowlers failed to execute their plans effectively, particularly in using slower balls. RR's batters, especially Donovon Ferreira and Shubham Dubey, capitalized on PBKS's bowling inconsistencies, with PBKS conceding 64 runs off 27 slower balls without taking a wicket. Bowling coach James Hopes noted the positive introduction of Lockie Ferguson and Harpreet Brar, who could provide much-needed variety in the bowling lineup. As PBKS prepares for two away matches before returning to their home ground in Dharamsala, they will need to address their bowling issues to maintain their position in the league standings.