Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off a thrilling win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier 2, securing a place in their first IPL final in 11 years. Bowling coach James Hopes praised the team’s persistence, highlighting how they kept MI’s explosive batting under control, particularly in a challenging chase of 204.
Impressive Bowling Display: PBKS Holds MI Back
After being sent into bat, Mumbai Indians posted a competitive 203/6, with standout performances from Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Naman Dhir. Despite MI’s strong start, the PBKS bowlers maintained their composure.
Hopes said, “There was a stage where MI were looking at 220, 225, but we kept pegging them back at the right time.” His team didn’t allow MI’s batsmen to get away, despite facing a high-pressure situation.
“We never went for that big over of 18 or 19; we kept them at 10-11 runs per over,” Hopes added. His faith in bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Azmatullah Omarzai paid off, particularly when the ball was a little wet due to dew. “We had a bit of confidence when they only got 200, knowing we had done well,” Hopes said.
Josh Inglis Sets the Tone
The chase of 204 wasn’t going to be easy, especially against Jasprit Bumrah, who had been bowling exceptionally well throughout the tournament. However, Josh Inglis stepped up, targeting Bumrah early in the fifth over. “The way Josh Inglis attacked Boom (Bumrah) upfront was key to getting him off his game,” Hopes explained.
Inglis hit two sixes and two fours in that over, helping the chase gain momentum. Hopes added, “If you’d told us we were chasing 200 and we were going to take 40 off Bumrah, we would’ve taken that every day.”
Shreyas Iyer’s Calm Leadership
While Inglis’ early assault set the tone, it was Shreyas Iyer who anchored the chase. Iyer’s unbeaten 87* from 41 balls was a composed innings that took PBKS over the line with an over to spare. Hopes, who worked with Iyer during his time at Delhi Capitals (DC), praised his calmness and strategic approach to batting.
“Iyer doesn’t get flustered easily, and he knows his match-ups,” Hopes said. “He scores at a high strike rate because he knows when to attack and when to rotate strike.”
Hopes also commended Iyer’s leadership. “He’s a sensational captain and a sensational player,” Hopes added. Iyer’s ability to manage bowlers and make critical decisions in the heat of the moment was crucial in keeping MI to a manageable total.
Final Thoughts: PBKS’ Momentum and Leadership
PBKS’ victory was a collective effort. While Inglis and Iyer starred with the bat, the bowlers played key roles in restricting MI. Hopes emphasized how PBKS had to keep fighting throughout, citing the crucial breakthroughs and strong teamwork.
In conclusion, Hopes said, “It was a great team effort, and Shreyas’ leadership was a big factor in making sure we stayed in control.” As PBKS heads to the final, it will be their first appearance in the IPL title match since 2014, and with the support of Iyer’s leadership, they’ll be ready to face their final challenge.
