Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer was fined ₹12 lakh after his team maintained a slow over-rate during their IPL 2026 opener against Gujarat Titans at Mullanpur on Tuesday. The penalty came despite Punjab Kings securing a thrilling three-wicket victory, with Cooper Connolly starring on debut with an unbeaten 72 off 44 balls.
First Offence of IPL 2026 Season
The IPL issued an official statement confirming the penalty. “Punjab Kings Captain Shreyas Iyer has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match No. 4 of the TATA Indian Premier League 2026 against Gujarat Titans at the New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh,” the statement read.
“As this was his team’s first offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Iyer was fined INR 12 lakhs.”
Repeat Offender From Last Season
Iyer faced similar penalties during IPL 2025. Punjab Kings maintained a slow over-rate twice last season. He was fined ₹12 lakh for the first offence and ₹24 lakh for the second violation. The escalating fines reflect the IPL’s strict enforcement of over-rate regulations.
During Tuesday’s run chase, Iyer suffered an injury scare. A powerful drive from Cooper Connolly at the non-striker’s end struck him on the wrist. However, the captain downplayed concerns after the match. “All I can say about the hand is that it is nice, the same as it was before. I do not want to jinx anything,” Iyer said.
Connolly Shines in Punjab Kings Victory
Chasing 163, Punjab Kings wobbled at 118/6 in the 15th over. Australian debutant Cooper Connolly rescued the innings. He smashed 72 runs from 44 balls, hitting five fours and five sixes. Connolly forged a crucial 76-run stand with Prabhsimran Singh for the second wicket. A vital 21-run partnership with fellow Australian Xavier Bartlett sealed victory with five balls remaining.
Punjab Kings next face Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk on Friday.
