In a thrilling IPL 2025 second qualifier, Shreyas Iyer led Punjab Kings (PBKS) to a five-wicket victory against Mumbai Indians (MI), securing their place in the final. With his stunning 87* off 41 balls, Iyer became the first-ever captain to lead three different franchises to the IPL final, marking PBKS’s second-ever appearance in the title clash, the first coming 11 years ago in 2014.
The Game-Changer: Shreyas Iyer’s Knock
In a rain-delayed fixture in Ahmedabad, MI posted a challenging 200+ total, with Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Naman Dhir contributing significantly. However, PBKS made a strong recovery from their dismal performance in Qualifier 1 and successfully chased down the target. The game saw a remarkable shift in momentum, with three crucial overs turning the tide in PBKS’s favor: 20 runs off Jasprit Bumrah in the PowerPlay, followed by 33 runs from Reece Topley and Trent Boult in the middle overs.
Mumbai Indians’ Strong Start
PowerPlay: Bairstow Leads the Charge
MI started strong with a 65/1 in the PowerPlay (RR: 10.83). Jonny Bairstow, after facing early pressure, blasted a six and fours to get PBKS going. Rohit Sharma fell early to Marcus Stoinis, but Bairstow’s aggressive approach helped PBKS recover. Despite the initial onslaught, MI’s bowlers struggled to contain the firepower.
Middle-Overs: Suryakumar and Tilak Shine
In the middle overs, MI pushed the score to 81/3 (RR: 9.00). Suryakumar Yadav continued his superb form, hitting boundaries and bringing the target closer to PBKS’s reach. Tilak Varma too showed excellent timing, finding the gaps and contributing 44 runs.
Death-Overs: Dhir’s Cameo Pushes MI Past 200
In the death overs, MI’s total surged past 200. Despite tight bowling from PBKS, Naman Dhir’s 37 off 18 balls helped MI finish strong. They ended their innings at 203/6, with 10 balls remaining.
PBKS’ Response: Iyer’s Masterclass
PowerPlay: Inglis and Bairstow Start Strong
PBKS started confidently, with Inglis smashing 20 runs off Bumrah in a flying start. Despite Prabhsimran Singh’s early dismissal, PBKS maintained their momentum. In the middle phase, Iyer and Nehal Wadhera took control of the chase, guiding PBKS to 83/1 (RR: 9.23).
Middle-Overs: Iyer and Wadhera Keep PBKS on Track
Shreyas Iyer took the responsibility in the middle overs, smashing three sixes off Topley and continuing the chase without panic. The pair’s 83-run stand was critical as PBKS stayed in control. Even though MI’s bowling attack tightened, PBKS remained calm.
Death-Overs: Iyer’s Heroics Seal the Game
As PBKS needed 54 off 24 balls, Iyer led the charge with several crucial boundaries, including a six and four off Ashwani Kumar’s deliveries. In the 19th over, Iyer hit four sixes to bring PBKS closer to the target. He sealed the game with another six, taking PBKS to a historic IPL final.
Key Performances
Mumbai Indians:
- Suryakumar Yadav: 44 (off 33 balls)
- Tilak Varma: 44 (off 35 balls)
- Naman Dhir: 37 (off 18 balls)
Punjab Kings:
- Shreyas Iyer: 87* (off 41 balls)
- Nehal Wadhera: 48 (off 34 balls)
- Marcus Stoinis: 1-19 (with the ball)
What’s Next?
PBKS will face RCB in a highly anticipated IPL 2025 final, with both teams aiming for their first-ever title. The battle for IPL supremacy is set to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams bring their best players to the table.
