Punjab Kings (PBKS) stayed top of IPL 2026 with 13 points despite a 4-wicket loss to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Suryansh Shedge’s 57 off 29 and strong bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Vyshak kept PBKS competitive, but GT chased 163 in a tight finish. PBKS called it a fighting effort and will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Ahmedabad: Punjab Kings (PBKS) remain at the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 standings with 13 points from nine matches, despite a four-wicket defeat to Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Chasing 163, the hosts crossed the line with a ball to spare in what was a closely fought contest on a difficult surface that kept bowlers in the game throughout.

The mood in the Punjab camp was measured and forward-looking despite the result, with Suryansh Shedge leading the conversation in the post-match press conference after a standout performance with the bat.

Shedge was exceptional on a wicket that offered variable bounce and tested every batter who walked out to the middle. He scored 57 off 29 deliveries at a strike rate of 196.55, striking 3 fours and 5 sixes, and gave Punjab Kings the best possible chance of posting a competitive total. His knock was a lesson in reading conditions and trusting the process.

"I wouldn't say I was waiting, I was preparing," said Shedge, reflecting on his journey to the playing XI. "The time on the sidelines benefitted me and it gave me the opportunity to prepare physically and mentally. Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer have consistently told me the same thing too: when the opportunity arrives, you must be ready to take it with both hands. That is what I tried to do today."