India, April 28 -- Punjab Kings arrived in Mullanpur with the confidence of a side that had not yet been beaten in IPL 2026. Shreyas Iyer's team had already built the most intimidating batting identity of the season, powered by fearless starts from Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh and sharpened further by their record chase of 265 against Delhi Capitals.

For the Rajasthan Royals, this was not just another league game. Riyan Parag's side needed early control against the table toppers, and with Jofra Archer taking the new ball, the plan had to be precise. Against Punjab's openers, one missed attacking point could become expensive very quickly.

That point arrived almost immediately. Priyansh Arya had already taken 21 runs off Nandre Bur...