Shreyas Iyer Earns Irfan Pathan’s ‘Chase Master’ Praise After Record IPL 2026 Chase vs DC

Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 71 powered PBKS to a historic chase of 265, drawing comparisons with Virat Kohli.

Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer has sparked massive praise following his match-winning knock against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan labelled Iyer as a “new-age chasemaster,” placing him alongside stalwarts like Virat Kohli after PBKS chased down a mammoth 265-run target. Iyer’s calm presence at the crease stood out in a high-pressure chase, as he anchored the innings to perfection despite early chances going his way.

“After Virat Kohli, if anyone deserves the “chase master” tag, it’s Shreyas Iyer. Calm, composed and clutch under pressure every single time,” Pathan tweeted on Saturday evening.

Iyer’s Composed 71 Seals Historic Chase

Coming into bat during a tense phase, Iyer made full use of two dropped chances by Karun Nair to produce a captain’s knock. His unbeaten 71 off 36 deliveries guided Punjab Kings to a six-wicket win with seven balls remaining. The innings proved crucial in what became one of the highest successful run chases in IPL history, with PBKS continuing their reputation as one of the most dangerous chasing sides in the league.

“I am running out of words, honestly speaking, because first of all, it was scorching hot to come out there and see bowlers getting hit for fours and sixes, you kind of lose your mindset,” Iyer said while speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony.

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Iyer Credits Rahul, Focuses On Winning Mindset

Despite his heroics, Iyer was quick to acknowledge KL Rahul’s sensational knock earlier in the game, which had set up the massive target for Punjab Kings. Highlighting his mindset during the chase, the PBKS skipper revealed his focus was purely on staying ahead of the required rate and finishing the job.

“Kudos to KL (Rahul). The way he played was fabulous and pleasing to the eye. In my mind, I was just saying that whatever they get from here on, I think we just have to score one more run and ensure we become victorious,” Iyer added.

With this victory, Punjab Kings moved to 13 points from seven matches, putting them firmly in contention for a playoff spot, with one more win likely to seal their qualification.