Punjab Kings (PBKS) were left concerned during their clash against Gujarat Titans when captain Shreyas Iyer was seen clutching his wrist in pain, prompting a stoppage in play as medical staff attended to him.
The incident, which occurred on March 31, quickly became a major talking point, with concerns shifting from the match result to Iyer’s condition. The injury scare followed a firmly struck drive from Cooper Connolly that hit Iyer on the wrist while he was at the non-striker’s end.
Iyer continues despite discomfort
Despite the blow, Iyer resumed batting after receiving treatment. However, his stay at the crease was short-lived as he was dismissed for 18 off 11 balls. His contribution came during a phase when Gujarat Titans mounted a comeback through their experienced pace attack while defending 162.
The contest at the PCA New Cricket Stadium, Tira, went down to the final over before PBKS secured victory. Cooper Connolly played the decisive role, finishing unbeaten on 72 from 44 balls to guide his side home.
Chahal provides injury update
Yuzvendra Chahal also played a key role in the win, picking up two wickets — including Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill and England batter Jos Buttler — in his four-over spell while maintaining an economy rate of 7.00.
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After the match, Chahal addressed concerns around Iyer’s injury, offering reassurance. “He’s fine, he’s absolutely fine. Nothing is there,” Yuzvendra Chahal said.
Iyer downplays concerns
Iyer himself also eased fears during the post-match presentation, indicating there was no serious issue with his wrist.
“All I can say about the hand is that it is nice, same as it was before, I do not want to jinx anything,” he said about the injury scare.
“I was focused on my hand inside, icing it, and suddenly we lost two wickets back to back; these things happen in the IPL. You have to stay composed. Cooper was there, he was composed and calm,” he further added, praising Connolly’s contribution.
Focus shifts to next challenge
PBKS will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixture against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 3, where a fully fit Iyer will be key for the team.
