Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Saturday, May 23 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. However, this is going to be a crucial game for the Shreyas Iyer-led side as their hopes to reach the playoffs, hangs on the outcome of this game.
Ricky Ponting reflects on off-field controversies
After enjoying a sensational first half of the tournament, PBKS endured a steep decline in their performance after facing six straight losses. If PBKS manage to win the game against LSG, then they will stay alive in the race to the playoffs.
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Other than decline in their on-field performance, PBKS have made headlines because of their off-field controversies. The Punjab-based side made social media post urging not to spread "fake news". A previous post that mentioned "sports journalists" was later deleted.
Reacting on the same, head coach Ricky Ponting has rejected the claims of off-field controversies affecting the team's environment. The former Australia skipper says he is unaware of social media discussions.
"I don’t think anything externally has interrupted us as a team," Ponting told reporters. “I’m not a big social media guy anyway, so I don’t, a lot of the stuff that’s been happening. I’m probably oblivious to," said Ricky Ponting.
While further talking, Ponting said all he can do is to control the environment of the side and look after the preparations.
“All I can do and control is, is the behaviour of the team and the way that the team prepares and the way that the team plays,"
Can PBKS qualify for the playoffs?
If PBKS wants to reach the playoffs, then they must defeat LSG tonight. The Shreyas Iyer-led side will hope that Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders lose their respective last league-stage games.
Key players to watch out in Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings
Lucknow Super Giants would love to have another stellar knock from their star opener Mitchell Marsh, who scored 96 against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the last game. On the other hand, Punjab Kings would look for their skipper Shreyas Iyer to step up in a crucial game as he is the top-run scorer for the side.