IPL 2026: GT vs PBKS, Match 46 – Top player battles to watch out for

Gujarat Titans (GT) square off against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match No. 46 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, May 03.

Led by Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings have been the most consistent team of IPL 2026, winning six of their first eight matches. Despite losing their previous encounter against Rajasthan Royals, they will enter this encounter high on confidence. 

Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans side, led by Shubman Gill, are having a mixed IPL 2026 so far, winning five of their first nine matches while losing four. If they manage to trump PBKS, it will provide them a huge boost. 

Here are the top player battles to watch out for from Match 46:

3. Rashid Khan vs Shreyas Iyer

Iyer has scored 105 runs off 90 balls against Rashid at a strike rate of 116.66, indicating a measured approach rather than outright domination. Rashid, on the other hand, has kept things extremely tight with an economy of 7.00 and has picked up two wickets in their duels.

The middle-overs battle between these two could prove decisive, as Rashid looks to control the scoring while Iyer aims to break free and keep the scoreboard ticking.

2. Jos Buttler vs Yuzi Chahal

A fascinating battle of experience and skill, Buttler versus Chahal often tilts the momentum of a game. Buttler has scored 90 runs off 73 balls against the leg-spinner at a strike rate of 123.28, but Chahal has had his moments too, dismissing him three times in 10 innings. Chahal’s variations and ability to outfox aggressive batters make this an even contest, especially in the middle overs.

Buttler, after having a slow start, is finally finding his grove with the bat, and if he manages to negate Chahal well, GT might have an upper hand in this contest.

1. Shubman Gill vs Arshdeep Singh

Gill, known for his elegant strokeplay and ability to anchor the innings, has had a decent record against Arshdeep, scoring 73 runs off 57 deliveries at a strike rate of 128.07. However, Arshdeep has managed to keep things relatively tight, conceding at an economy of 7.68 and even picking up a wicket in their encounters.

Whoever gains an upper hand in this new ball contest in the powerplay will give his side an immense boost. With Gill in top form, expect him to counter-attack Arshdeep Singh in the powerplay overs.