Punjab Kings Aim for Perfection in Upcoming IPL Clash Against Sunrisers Hyderabad

As the Punjab Kings gear up for their IPL 2026 clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad, assistant coach Brad Haddin emphasizes the team's goal of achieving a 'perfect game.' Currently leading the points table, PBKS aims to bounce back from recent losses. Haddin highlights the fearless approach of their openers and the growing confidence in the middle order, particularly praising Suryansh Shedge's recent performance. With a clear strategy to tackle Hyderabad's strong batting lineup, the Kings are focused on maintaining their top position in the tournament. Read on to discover more about their preparations and insights from Haddin.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 6, 2026, 02:13 IST

Punjab Kings Set for IPL Showdown

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 5: Brad Haddin, the assistant coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS), expressed the team's ambition to showcase a "perfect game" as they prepare for their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday.

Currently, PBKS tops the IPL 2026 leaderboard with 13 points from nine matches, having secured victories in six of those encounters.

Despite their strong position, the team is looking to bounce back after suffering defeats in their last two matches against Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans.

This season, PBKS has adopted a fearless playing style, prominently featuring openers Prabhsimran Singh, who has scored 361 runs, and Priyansh Arya, with 285 runs to his name.

During a pre-match press briefing, Haddin praised the team's mentality, emphasizing their closeness to achieving a "perfect game." He stated, "Our openers have significantly contributed to our current standing. They bring excitement and talent, and their fearless approach at the top has been crucial. In tournament play, it’s essential to perform at your best when it matters most, and that’s what we’re aiming for—a flawless performance that will make us tough to beat," as reported by a PBKS release.

Haddin also highlighted the confidence gained from the middle order's recent performances, particularly noting Suryansh Shedge's impressive 57 runs off 29 balls against the Gujarat Titans as a positive sign for the team's depth.

He remarked, "The partnership between Stoinis and Suryansh was commendable given the pressure of the game. Suryansh's ability to score under duress was remarkable. He navigated a tough phase, scoring ten runs off ten balls before accelerating. While our top order is explosive, our middle order is now finding its rhythm and form."

Haddin reaffirmed the team's unwavering trust in their leading bowler, Arshdeep Singh, whom he described as a world-class talent. He acknowledged the challenges bowlers face in the current tournament climate but emphasized the importance of long-term goals.

"Arshdeep is exceptional. In this tournament, bowlers will inevitably have off days due to the explosive batting. Statistics show there have been some incredible chases, and Arshdeep is well aware of the tournament's dynamics. We are pleased with his progress. It’s crucial for our top players to shine in the key matches towards the end of the tournament, and he is integral to our plans," Haddin commented.

To secure a win against Hyderabad, Haddin outlined a clear strategy: "We need to take early wickets and prevent [Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma] from settling in too long."