IPL 2026 | Whenever I play, I only think of becoming a match-winner: Harpreet

‘Harpreet Brar’ and ‘hype’ seldom get mentioned in the same sentence. 

The Punjab Kings left-arm spinner has influenced many an IPL match with his miserly spells, especially in the last three seasons. But Harpreet has often flown under the radar as his numbers — 35 wickets in 49 games at 8.03 — do not tell the whole story. 

Back in red and blue to quietly go about his business in IPL 2026, the 30-year-old is eager to remain a pivotal piece of the PBKS puzzle. 

“I have never paid attention to it (spotlight not being on him), but I have been put under pressure after being told that this is happening (laughs). Whenever I play, I only think of becoming a match-winner,” Harpreet told The Hindu during a virtual interaction on Sunday. 

“I want to do well for the team and help it cross the line. That is what I keep trying. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I do not,” he added. 

In a tournament where the bowlers are put under the pump from the very beginning, Harpreet operates with a simple mantra. 

“I never pre-plan such things (whether to attack the batters or defend); I bowl according to the situation. But I always think about taking a wicket. Only when I take a wicket can I put my team in a better position and grow as a player.” 

Being led by Shreyas Iyer has helped Harpreet immensely. “Shreyas is the best captain I have played under so far. He has an on-field attitude; he talks a lot. He allows us to do what we want and asks us to play without pressure. If a Punjabi guy gets such backing, he can win the world,” said Harpreet. 

For now, the tweaker would not mind clinching PBKS’ maiden IPL trophy.