![Harpreet Brar celebrates in front of Virat Kohli [Source: X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1779015789944_ViratKohli(12).jpg?type=hq)
Harpreet Brar celebrates in front of Virat Kohli [Source: X.com]
On Sunday afternoon, Punjab Kings faced Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 61st match of IPL 2026 at the beautiful Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. The contest carried massive importance for both teams as the playoff race entered a thrilling stage.
Punjab Kings won the toss and decided to bowl first. Soon after the match started, Punjab spinner Harpreet Brar looked completely fired up in front of Virat Kohli. His body language showed confidence and intensity, and he immediately tried to put pressure on the RCB batters.
Harpreet Brar Removes Jacob Bethell Early
The big moment arrived in the third over of the innings. Harpreet Brar came over the wicket and delivered a good-length ball outside the off stump. The delivery moved in sharply with the angle.
Young England batter Jacob Bethell stepped back and attempted a cut shot. Unfortunately for him, the ball took an inside edge and rolled back onto the stumps.
Notably, Bethell departed after scoring 11 runs from just 7 deliveries. The wicket gave Punjab Kings a strong start and also lifted the energy level of the entire team.
Harpeet Brar Celebrates With Full Aggression
After taking the wicket, Harpreet Brar celebrated with full aggression. His reaction immediately caught the attention of fans. The Punjab Kings spinner appeared extremely pumped up. It is also worth mentioning that Brar's his celebration reminded many viewers of Virat Kohli’s passionate style on the field.
Harpreet Brar continued his brilliant form in the 10th over as he dismissed Devdutt Padikkal for 45 off 25 balls on the very first delivery of his second spell.
The left-arm spinner once again troubled RCB with his smart bowling. Padikkal attempted an attacking shot against a drifting length ball, though he failed to keep it down and handed a sharp catch to Shreyas Iyer at short cover. Brar celebrated passionately again in front of Virat Kohli, while Padikkal walked back disappointed after missing his half-century.
Watch the video below:
Also Read: Why Virat Kohli Isn't Captaining RCB Despite Rajat Patidar Unavailability? Old Statement Reveals
Jacob Bethell Continues Poor Form In IPL 2026
Notably, Jacob Bethell entered the playing XI after Phil Salt suffered an injury. Sadly for RCB, the youngster has failed to deliver consistent performances in recent games.
In his last seven innings, including this match, Bethell has managed only 96 runs with a strike rate of 124.68. Such numbers highlight the difficult phase the young batter is currently experiencing.
On the other hand, Harpreet Brar himself has also endured a disappointing season. Before this clash, he played against Rajasthan Royals and went wicketless while conceding 25 runs. Therefore, this breakthrough against RCB could provide him with much-needed confidence for the remainder of the match.
Why This Match Matters For Punjab Kings
This contest holds huge importance for both sides, although the pressure differs for each team. RCB entered the match with an opportunity to officially secure a playoff spot in IPL 2026. A victory would further strengthen their impressive campaign and maintain their winning momentum.
Punjab Kings, meanwhile, find themselves in a tense situation. After winning six of their first seven matches earlier in the season, their campaign suddenly lost direction. The team has now suffered five consecutive defeats, which has placed them under tremendous pressure.
As a result, the team now needs victories in both remaining league matches to confirm a place in the IPL 2026 playoffs.
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