PBKS Coach Confirms Skipper Iyer’s Fitness Boost Before CSK Match

Filmogaz.com in Chennai, April 2, 2026 — Punjab Kings assistant coach Brad Haddin provided an update on Shreyas Iyer’s wrist. Iyer experienced swelling after a blow in the previous match.

Iyer’s fitness update

The blow came from a Cooper Connolly drive that struck the non-striker’s hand. Scans showed no fracture, Haddin said, and the focus is on reducing swelling and restoring movement.

The PBKS coach said the latest signs represent a fitness boost for the skipper ahead of the CSK game. He expects Iyer to be available for the match.

Connolly’s match impact

Cooper Connolly produced an unbeaten 72 off 44 balls. He hit five fours and five sixes to lead PBKS to 163.

PBKS had slipped to 118 for six after a promising start. Haddin noted the team had tracked Connolly’s progress in Australia prior to the auction.

Bartlett’s development

Xavier Bartlett has shown marked improvement over the past 12 months. He began as a new-ball bowler and has added reliable death bowling skills.

His batting has also improved, becoming a dependable lower-order hitter. In the last match Bartlett recorded 0 for 36 in four overs and an unbeaten 11 from five balls, including a six.

Squad balance and pitch assessment

Haddin praised the squad’s flexibility and said two years of planning shaped their balance. The group aims to cover different surfaces across the IPL.

Coaches will review pitch data to decide on personnel, including the need for an extra spinner. Haddin observed the surface looked flatter and carried more grass than in past seasons.

Reflections on the start

PBKS were pleased with their opening victory and the way the chase finished. Haddin said the start was important, but there is still room for improvement.