IPL 2026: Ricky Ponting tries to playfully slaps Shashank Singh after dropped catches vs LSG

Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting wore his emotions on his sleeve during their clash against the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026. The former Australian captain was visibly frustrated in the dugout as his side struggled in the field, particularly due to multiple dropped chances.

After the match, however, the mood shifted to something lighter. As the PBKS players lined up for the customary handshakes, captain Shreyas Iyer playfully tried to hide Shashank Singh’s face with his cap while approaching Ponting, acknowledging the fielder’s tough outing in a humorous way. What followed reflected Ponting’s leadership style, rather than showing anger, he jokingly pretended to slap Shashank before breaking into a smile and embracing him, offering reassurance and support.

Singh had a difficult time on the field, dropping multiple chances that proved costly. His first major error came when Nicholas Pooran miscued a shot, only for the catch to be put down in the deep. The missed opportunity allowed Pooran to continue, potentially shifting momentum. Shashank later misjudged a shot from Aiden Markram near the boundary, resulting in the ball sailing over for a six instead of being safely collected. Adding to PBKS’s woes, another chance, this time off Mukul Choudhary, was also dropped.

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WATCH: Arshdeep hugs Preity Zinta after PBKS’ win over LSG

PBKS continued their dominant run in the IPL, remaining unbeaten with a commanding 54-run victory over LSG at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on April 19. The win propelled PBKS to the top of the points table, further underlining their strong form this season.

The foundation of Punjab’s massive total was laid by an extraordinary partnership between Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. The duo dismantled the LSG bowling attack with a breathtaking 182-run stand off just 80 deliveries. Both batters looked set for centuries but fell agonisingly short after playing explosive knocks that put the opposition on the back foot early in the innings.

Following their dismissals, Marcus Stoinis and Shashank Singh provided the finishing touches, taking the total to an imposing 254/7 in 20 overs. In response, LSG began positively with Mitchell Marsh and Ayush Badoni stitching together a 61-run opening partnership. However, once the initial stand was broken, the innings lost momentum. Wickets began to fall at regular intervals, making it difficult for LSG to keep up with the steep required run rate.

Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram attempted to stabilise the chase and keep the scoreboard ticking. While both showed intent, neither could produce the sustained acceleration needed to challenge PBKS’s towering total. Marco Jansen emerged as the standout performer with the ball for Punjab, delivering a disciplined spell.