Yesterday IPL Match Result: Connolly holds nerve as PBKS edge GT in thriller
Cooper Connolly's unbeaten 72 steered Punjab Kings to a thrilling three-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh. Despite a middle-order wobble triggered by Prasidh Krishna, Connolly's composed innings, supported by crucial partnerships, secured the win with five balls to spare. Gujarat's earlier 162/6, despite contributions from Gill and Buttler, proved insufficient.
Cooper Connolly announced himself on the big stage with a composed, match-winning knock as Punjab Kings edged past Gujarat Titans by three wickets in a tense IPL 2026 clash in New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Chasing 163, Punjab looked in complete control early on, but a dramatic middle-order collapse nearly derailed their chase before Connolly’s maturity guided them home with five balls to spare. Connolly anchors nervy chase Punjab’s innings began in explosive fashion, with Prabhsimran Singh and Connolly stitching a brisk 76-run stand that put the hosts firmly on course.
While Gujarat managed just three sixes in their entire innings, Punjab raced to four maximums within the first four overs. However, the game turned on its head when Prasidh Krishna, introduced late as an impact player by captain Shubman Gill, triggered a stunning collapse. The pacer picked up three wickets in 10 deliveries, reducing Punjab from a position of strength to a nervy finish after losing four wickets for just eight runs.
“Such things happen in the IPL when you lose wickets back-to-back,” admitted Punjab skipper Shreyas Iyer. Unfazed, Connolly held his nerve, building crucial partnerships with Marco Jansen and Xavier Bartlett. The 22-year-old remained unbeaten on 72 off 44 balls, striking five fours and five sixes, including two off Rashid Khan.
“To put that performance in tonight, very happy. I’m more of a tempo player,” Connolly said after being named Player of the Match. GT falter after steady start Earlier, Gujarat Titans posted 162/6 after being put in to bat.