Punjab Kings endured a disappointing evening after suffering a 33-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday in Hyderabad. The defeat also saw them lose their place at the top of the IPL points table. Their batting unit performed brilliantly, but it was Punjab’s poor fielding performance that cost them a decisive defeat in the high-scoring clash. Following the defeat, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer openly admitted that the team’s mistakes on the field played a major role in the outcome.
"I think it was a bit too much because we dropped many catches at the start and we could have easily delayed their score by 30 to 40 runs, I guess. Because the wicket kept getting slower and the cutters were holding up a bit. So we weren't that comprehensive enough on the field, nor in bowling, nor in batting. So I think they played comprehensive cricket and they showed us how to win the match," Iyer said at the post-match presentation.
"I feel we got a fairytale start in this tournament, and everyone was in a great space and the mindset was top-notch. I think it's important that we stick with the same mindset. It's easy to get diverted with talking negative about things. If we are going to continue with the same form that's not going to help us. But definitely we got to go back, reflect on things that we didn't do well in the particular last three matches and see to it that we come back strong," Iyer stated.
Sunrisers Hyderabad capitalised on Punjab's errors smartly, posting a gigantic total of 235/4 in 20 overs. Overall, PBKS dropped three catches and also missed a vital stumping chance, allowing SRH batters to build momentum and dominate the innings. Chasing the target, Punjab were never in the game after losing openers early on. Young Cooper Connolly put on a show of resistance, smashing an unbeaten 107. However, his fight went in vain as Punjab managed 202/7 in 20 overs.