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Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer reveals why he was substituted during the match against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

Punjab Kings are just one win away from securing a spot in the playoffs after winning a thrilling match against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Sunday.

The main highlight of the match was PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer being substituted out, with Harpreet Brar coming in as the impact substitute. Shashank Singh took over the captaincy duties for Punjab Kings in Iyer’s absence.

During the post-match presentation, Iyer revealed the reason behind his substitution in the second innings of the match against RR, saying he sustained an injury to his forefinger during a practice session on Saturday. Iyer also mentioned that he has no idea what the issue with his forefinger is. He said he’ll have a better idea once he returns to the dressing room and consults with the physios.

“The reason is the finger over here (pointing at his forefinger). I don’t know what has happened. Yesterday, while practising, I got hit, I will have to go and check what exactly is the issue here,” said Shreyas.

Punjab Kings successfully defended a total of 209 runs, as RR fell short by 10 runs. Despite an impressive batting display from RR openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, RR failed to chase down the target due to an underwhelming performance from their middle order.

After taking three vital wickets and dismissing Vaibhav, Yashasvi, and Riyan Parag, left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar helped the Punjab Kings win the match.

“He has been consistent in the nets. He wants to do the best for himself, he was hungry for this opportunity and today I feel he stepped in and delivered at his best, congratulations to him and his mindset has been tremendous throughout,” said Shreyas Iyer

Punjab Kings moved up to second place in the standings with this win. PBKS, GT, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will guarantee their playoff berths if Gujarat Titans defeat Delhi Capitals.