Shreyas Iyer, the captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS), suffered a hand injury during their first match of the IPL 2026 season against Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh on March 31. The injury occurred when a powerful shot from Cooper Connolly struck Iyer while he was at the non-striker's end, causing him significant pain. Despite this, Iyer remained on the field and continued to bat after receiving treatment. Ahead of PBKS' second match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 3, assistant coach Brad Haddin provided an update, stating that while Iyer has swelling in his hand, there is no fracture. Haddin expressed optimism, indicating that Iyer is expected to participate in the crucial match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.