Punjab Kings smash record 265-run T20 chase to down Delhi in 2026

Punjab Kings chased down Delhi Capitals' 265-run target in a record-breaking IPL 2026 victory.

Record-breaking chase Punjab Kings achieved the highest successful run-chase in T20 cricket history by overhauling Delhi Capitals' imposing total of 265 runs. The visitors reached the target with 7 balls remaining at Arun Jaitley Stadium, beating their own previous best of 262 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024. KL Rahul had earlier blazed an unbeaten 152 runs off just 67 deliveries, the highest score by an Indian in IPL, as Delhi finished with 264-2 batting first. Punjab started aggressively, posting 116-0 in the powerplay, the second-highest powerplay total of the tournament. ## Opener blitzkrieg Punjab's openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya set the pace with a 126-run opening stand in blistering Delhi heat. Prabhsimran Singh hammered a rapid 76 runs off 26 balls, while Arya contributed 43 runs off 17 deliveries. Their explosive start left Delhi reeling as Punjab surged to 116-0 within the first six overs. The visitors never looked back after this commanding opening partnership. ## Captain’s finishing touch Shreyas Iyer played a captain’s knock of 71 runs not out off 36 balls to guide Punjab home with relative ease. Two dropped catches by Karun Nair proved costly as Iyer capitalized to steer his team to victory. Punjab crossed the line comfortably, securing their record-breaking win in emphatic fashion. The home side’s hopes were dashed despite Rahul’s heroic innings. ## Injury controversy The thrilling contest was marred by an injury to Delhi’s Lungi Ngidi, who was rushed off in an ambulance. With Punjab at 43-0 in the third over, the South African fast bowler stumbled while attempting a catch on Arya, falling backwards and hitting his head on the turf. The game was halted for 15 minutes as Ngidi received urgent medical care before being taken away for further checks. Vipraj Nigam entered the attack as a concussion substitute before play resumed. ## Standings impact Unbeaten Punjab now lead the standings with 13 points from seven matches, three clear of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. Delhi, meanwhile, slipped to sixth place with six points. The Capitals’ loss dented their playoff hopes as Punjab cemented their position at the top. The match’s dramatic twists left the IPL landscape reshaped after the fiery encounter.