Match 4 of IPL 2026 brings together two of the tournament's most exciting captains — Shreyas Iyer leading Punjab Kings at their home fortress in Mullanpur, and Shubman Gill captaining Gujarat Titans for the first time in a full IPL season. This match on March 31 promises to be a thrilling contest between two sides hungry for an early win.
The Storylines
Shreyas Iyer returns to Mullanpur as captain: After leading KKR to their third IPL title in 2024, Shreyas was controversially not retained by KKR ahead of the mega auction. He joined Punjab Kings and has been tasked with ending their long wait for an IPL title. Mullanpur is PBKS's home ground and Shreyas knows how important early wins are for momentum.
Shubman Gill's leadership test: The 25-year-old became GT's captain heading into IPL 2026 and this is one of his first real tests as leader. Gill is arguably the most technically gifted batter in Indian cricket right now, but leadership adds a new dimension to his game. How he handles pressure situations will define GT's season.
Head to Head Record — PBKS vs GT
- Total matches: 8
- PBKS wins: 3
- GT wins: 5
- GT have a clear historical advantage over PBKS
- Last meeting: GT won by 7 wickets in IPL 2025
Key Player Battles
Arshdeep Singh vs Shubman Gill: The left-arm seamer's inswing against the right-handed opener is the defining powerplay battle. If Arshdeep can swing one back and beat Gill's outside edge early, PBKS will gain enormous confidence at home.
Yuzvendra Chahal vs GT middle order: Chahal against Washington Sundar and Sherfane Rutherford in the middle overs is where the match could be won or lost. Chahal's leg-spin on a Mullanpur surface that takes turn could be devastating for GT's middle order.
Match Prediction
Punjab Kings have the home advantage, a settled squad, and a captain who knows how to win. Gujarat Titans have Shubman Gill and a balanced pace attack. On a Mullanpur pitch that suits pace and offers some spin, PBKS's combination of Arshdeep, Chahal and the explosive batting of Priyansh Arya and Shreyas Iyer makes them slight favourites. Predicted winner: Punjab Kings.
