Punjab Kings remained top of IPL 2026 with 13 points despite their first defeat after Rajasthan Royals chased down 222 in New Chandigarh. Coach James Hopes called it a reality check, backed the squad to regroup, and praised Marcus Stoinis’ explosive unbeaten 62.
New Chandigarh, April 29: Punjab Kings (PBKS) remain at the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 standings with 13 points from eight matches, despite facing their first defeat of the season in a high-scoring encounter against Rajasthan Royals (RR).
In a thrilling contest at the New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh, the Kings posted a formidable 222/4 after being sent in to bat, but were unable to hold off a clinical chase from the visitors.
The match was a showcase of batting strength, with the Kings’ top order once again providing a solid platform before a spectacular late-innings surge. Despite the narrow loss, the mood in the Punjab camp remains focused and optimistic as they transition into the second half of the tournament.
Hopes confident after first defeat
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