Punjab Kings began their IPL 2026 league phase strongly, winning six of their first seven matches with one washout against Kolkata Knight Riders to top the points table. However, the franchise suffered a dramatic reversal, losing six consecutive matches that ultimately cost them a playoff berth. Despite the collapse, the team recovered to beat Lucknow Super Giants by seven wickets in their final league match, with Shreyas Iyer scoring an unbeaten century.
Priyansh Arya, the left-handed opening batter
for Punjab Kings, addressed the team's downturn during a media interaction. Speaking on the subject of individual accountability for the collapse, Arya rejected the notion that any single player bore responsibility for the franchise's struggles.
Arya rejects individual blame for Punjab's collapse
Arya's statement addressed claims that had circulated during Punjab's losing streak, with some reports linking the collapse to specific players. The 24-year-old batter emphasised that the team had performed well in both batting and bowling during the early stages of the tournament, suggesting that the subsequent losses reflected the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket rather than systemic failure.
"We didn’t suffer because of any individual. It’s a team game. Cricket is a game of momentum." Arya was quoted as saying by IndiaTV.
"In a big tournament like the IPL, momentum is key. We haven’t done anything wrong because we were doing well in both departments. After all, only one team can win at the end of the day," he added.
Ponting's coaching approach praised by Arya
Arya also spoke positively about the coaching environment under Ricky Ponting, who has been Punjab Kings' head coach for two seasons. The batter highlighted the freedom and support provided by the coaching staff during the challenging period.
"He gives us full freedom. He told us to express ourselves on the pitch. He tells us to work hard as well. So, it has been really good, and there are no restrictions as well. He has allowed us to do whatever we want to do," Arya noted.
Arya's own performance in IPL 2025 had been impressive, accumulating 475 runs across 17 matches at a strike rate of approximately 180. He was purchased by Punjab Kings for INR 3.8 crore at the IPL 2025 auction.
