IPL 2026 PBKS vs GT: Predicted Playing XI and Matchups to Watch

IndyaStory Exclusive:
Match 4 of Indian Premier League 2026 features Punjab Kings taking on Gujarat Titans at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST.

Fans can watch the action live on the Star Sports Network, while online streaming will be available on JioHotstar.

Teams With Something to Prove

Punjab Kings enter the season with renewed confidence after a strong 2025 campaign, where they topped the table and reached the final. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and guidance of coach Ricky Ponting, the team looks more structured and determined to secure their first IPL title.

Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, are equally motivated after falling short in the playoffs last season. With a balanced squad and experienced core, they aim to start strong this year.

Cooper Connolly at No. 3: A Bold Move

Punjab Kings have made an interesting tactical decision by promoting Cooper Connolly to the No. 3 position. This move signals an aggressive approach, backed by the team management.

Connolly has shown capability in that role, scoring consistently in T20s, but his recent form raises questions. Additionally, his current inability to bowl due to a back issue reduces his all-round value, making this a calculated risk.

Key Battle: Gill vs PBKS Bowlers

One of the standout matchups will be Shubman Gill against his former team’s bowling attack, particularly Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal.

Gill has maintained a strong record in this contest, scoring consistently at a high strike rate. Arshdeep’s early swing and death-over precision could challenge him upfront, while Chahal’s variations in the middle overs will test his control.

This contest also carries a psychological edge, given Gill’s past association with Punjab, adding extra intensity to the encounter.

PBKS vs GT Playing 11 Today (Predicted)

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (C), Marcus Stoinis, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett / Ben Dwarshuis, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Shubman Gill (C), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, M Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Jason Holder / Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj

What To Expect

With both teams evenly matched and strong in key areas, this clash is expected to be competitive. Early breakthroughs, top-order performances, and middle-over strategies could decide the outcome.

FAQs

Q. Where is the PBKS vs GT match being played?
A. The match is being held at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.

Q. What is the head-to-head record?
A. Both teams have won three matches each in their past encounters.

Q. Is weather likely to affect the match?
A. No major weather disruptions are expected.