• Source:JND
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Shreyas Iyer described Punjab Kings’ fifth straight defeat as “tough pill to swallow” after Mumbai Indians defeated Punjab Kings by six wickets in a crucial IPL 2026 match at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.

The PBKS captain admitted that his team was outplayed by Tilak Varma, whose unbeaten 75-run innings guided Mumbai to an important win in Dharamsala.

ALSO READ: Can Punjab Kings Still Qualify for IPL 2026 Playoffs? Here’s What PBKS Need After Defeat to Mumbai Indians

Iyer on PBKS defeat

Speaking after the match, Iyer said he did not want to blame any particular moment or player for the loss.

ALSO READ: IPL 2026: Tilak Varma Unleashes Masterclass 75* As Mumbai Indians Crush Punjab Kings By Six Wickets

“It’s definitely a tough defeat for us, but I don’t want to point fingers because it was a great game of cricket and both teams fought hard,” he said.

Iyer also praised Tilak for the way he handled the chase. Tilak Varma smashed a match-winning 75 off 33 balls that helped the MI chase down the target of 201 with one ball to spare.

“He batted brilliantly, chose his shots very well, and used the field smartly. Full credit to him for the innings,” the PBKS skipper added.

Iyer appreciated Azmatullah Omarzai

At the same time, Iyer appreciated Azmatullah Omarzai for his quick-fire 38 runs from 17 balls, which helped Punjab post a competitive total after a slow beginning.

“At one point, we were looking at around 170 or 180, but Omarzai changed the momentum completely. The sixes he hit in the final overs helped us reach 200, and that was a fantastic effort from him,” he said.

Despite the loss, Iyer remains hopeful about Punjab’s playoff chances and is focused on the upcoming matches.

“We are excited for the next opportunity. We know we have to win both remaining games, and the team is looking forward to the challenge,” he said ahead of PBKS’ next match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala.


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