IPL 2026: Why are PBKS players wearing black armbands in Match 17?

Match No. 17 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 between Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh started with the visiting batters going all guns blazing after the hosts won the toss and invited the opposition to bat first. As PBKS fielders took the field, they were spotted wearing black armbands.

The franchise has explained its players opted to carry the black armbands during the encounter in a bid to pay tribute to the recent boat accident in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, where reportedly 11 innocent people lost their lives, while multiple have been severely injured. For the unversed, the unfortunate boat accident happened on Friday, April 10.

“Punjab Kings players wore black armbands during today’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh, on Saturday, as a mark of respect for those affected by the tragic boat accident in Vrindavan. The franchise stands in solidarity with the grieving families and the community during this difficult time,” PBKS stated in a post on their official social media handle.

PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer did not explain any reason regarding the black armband during the toss presentation, but he did explain the tactics with which they are entering the match, where they are aiming to build winning momentum for themselves. With Priyansh Arya back in form, the opening batter replaced Nehal Wadhera in the contest.

“We’re going to bowl first. It’s a day game and obviously want to get a knack of how the wicket is going to play and a fair idea. But other than that, that’s what we’ve been doing in the last couple of games. We’ve been thriving on that. (Things to address?) I personally feel that you can’t control the nature of the weather. You’ve just got to go with the flow.

“And I personally feel that we don’t have to address anything at any point of time. Just back each other, back all the youngsters in the team. The more you tell them, the confusing it gets for them. So, it’s better that they live in their own nature and express themselves. No, we’re going with the same team. Actually, bowling first, Priyansh comes in for Nehal,” Iyer said at the toss.