Chennai: Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has been penalised for the second consecutive match in IPL 2026 for breaching the tournament’s Code of Conduct, with the entire team also facing fines after their win over Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
The action was taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India under Article 2.22 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which relates to minimum over-rate offences.
Second offence brings heavier penalty
According to an official statement, Iyer was fined ₹24 lakh for maintaining a slow over-rate during Match No. 7 of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
This was Punjab Kings’ second such offence this season, leading to stricter punishment for the skipper. In addition, all members of the playing XI, including the Impact Player, were fined either ₹6 lakh or 25 per cent of their respective match fees, whichever is lower.
The repeated offence has raised concerns about over-rate discipline within the PBKS camp early in the tournament.
PBKS chase down 210 in style
Despite the penalty, Punjab Kings delivered a strong performance on the field, chasing down a challenging target of 210 to secure a five-wicket victory.
Captain Shreyas Iyer led from the front with a brisk 29-ball 50, anchoring the chase and guiding his side home in just 18.4 overs. The win marked PBKS’ second consecutive victory in the ongoing season.
CSK post competitive total
Earlier, Chennai Super Kings put up a solid total of 209/5 after being asked to bat first.
Young batter Ayush Mhatre impressed with a fluent 73 off 43 balls, forming a crucial 96-run partnership with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who contributed 28.
Middle-order contributions came from Sarfaraz Khan, who scored a quick 32 off 12 deliveries, and Shivam Dube, who remained unbeaten on 45 off 27 balls to push the total past the 200-mark.
Over-rate issues under spotlight
Slow over-rates have been a recurring issue in T20 leagues, often resulting in fines and, in extreme cases, suspensions. Teams are expected to complete their quota of overs within the stipulated time, failing which penalties are imposed as per league regulations.
For Shreyas Iyer and Punjab Kings, back-to-back offences so early in the season could be a concern, especially as repeated violations may invite even harsher sanctions.
Focus shifts to consistency
While the victory over Chennai Super Kings boosts PBKS’ campaign, the team management will need to address the over-rate concerns swiftly to avoid further penalties.
Maintaining discipline on and off the field will be key as Punjab Kings look to build momentum in IPL 2026 and sustain their winning run in the matches ahead.