Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh

A shocking and unfortunate incident grabbed attention during the IPL 2026 match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals in Mullanpur, when a powerful six by young batter Priyansh Arya ended up injuring an elderly spectator in the stands.

The incident occurred in the second over of the match, with Nandre Burger bowling. Arya played an aggressive shot that sailed over the boundary and into the crowd. While the shot added valuable runs for his team, it turned into a distressing moment as the ball struck an elderly fan directly on the face.

The impact was severe, and the fan immediately started bleeding profusely. His shirt was quickly soaked in blood, creating panic among nearby spectators. People sitting around him rushed to provide assistance and tried to offer immediate first aid. Considering the seriousness of the injury, he was swiftly taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

The incident led to a brief moment of silence and concern across the stadium, as the atmosphere shifted from excitement to anxiety. Security personnel and medical teams responded promptly and ensured the injured fan was safely escorted out for treatment.

Such incidents once again highlight concerns regarding spectator safety at cricket venues. While big hits and towering sixes are an integral part of T20 cricket, there is a growing need to further strengthen safety measures in stadiums to prevent such accidents in the future.

As of now, an official update on the fan’s condition is awaited. Meanwhile, the video of the incident has been rapidly circulating on social media, drawing widespread attention and concern.