Punjab Kings storm into IPL 2025 final with a thrilling win over Mumbai Indians
It was a day packed with drama, tension, and rain delays — but Punjab Kings (PBKS) finally sealed their place in the IPL 2025 final with a commanding victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier 2 at Ahmedabad on Sunday. After a weather-induced two-hour delay, the match unfolded into a full 20 overs per side thriller that cricket fans will remember for a long time.
Mumbai Indians set a challenging target
Batting first, Mumbai Indians put up a strong total of 203 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite some hiccups early on, their middle order stepped up to boost the scoreboard. The target was daunting, but not unreachable, especially on a pitch that seemed to offer some stroke-play opportunities.
Early fireworks and game-changing moments in the chase
Punjab Kings started their chase with solid intent. Opening batsman Josh Inglis lit up the innings with a quickfire 38 off just 21 balls, smashing boundaries and notably punishing Jasprit Bumrah with a 20-run over — a highlight that swung momentum in PBKS’s favour early on. However, wickets tumbled at the other end, threatening to derail the chase.
One of the biggest talking points of the match came during the middle overs when PBKS batter Shashank Singh was run out for just 2 runs. The dismissal was the result of a brilliant direct hit from Hardik Pandya, but what really grabbed attention was Shashank’s hesitation in running between the wickets. It wasn’t just the brilliance of Hardik’s throw but also Shashank’s lack of urgency that nearly cost Punjab Kings the match. This moment sent a ripple of concern through the PBKS camp as they still needed 35 runs from 20 balls — a tricky ask in any IPL final.
Captaincy brilliance by Shreyas Iyer
Amidst the pressure, Shreyas Iyer emerged as the calming force. The Punjab Kings skipper led from the front with an unbeaten 87 runs off just 41 balls, smashing eight sixes and five fours in a breathtaking innings. Iyer’s knock was a textbook example of pacing an innings under pressure — starting cautiously, rotating the strike, and then unleashing a barrage of boundaries in the final overs to put the chase beyond doubt.
Supporting Iyer was Nehal Wadhera, who played a pivotal role with a quickfire 48 off 29 balls. Their 84-run partnership for the fourth wicket steadied the ship and tilted the game firmly towards PBKS. This duo’s resilience and aggression combined to turn the tide, edging Punjab closer to the target with every boundary.
Intense captain-to-batsman moment after the run out
As the victory became certain, the Punjab Kings team erupted in celebrations, hugging and cheering their way onto the field to soak in the win. However, in the midst of the celebrations, Shreyas Iyer was seen confronting Shashank Singh about his careless running, which had put the team under immense pressure during a crucial phase.
Shashank, visibly regretful, accepted the captain’s reprimand without protest, understanding that such moments of hesitation can cost dearly in high-stakes matches. This interaction reflected the seriousness with which PBKS treats discipline and the fine margins that decide big games.
The bigger picture — Punjab Kings back in the final after years
This victory was historic for Punjab Kings as they reached the IPL final for the first time since 2014, ending a long wait for their fans. Their journey has been marked by ups and downs, but this performance proved their mettle under pressure.
On the other side, this result means the IPL 2025 final will feature a new champion for the first time since 2016, with Punjab Kings set to clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The RCB squad has been equally impressive this season, making this final one of the most exciting IPL conclusions in recent memory.
Match summary and key takeaways:
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Mumbai Indians’ innings: 203/6 in 20 overs
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Punjab Kings’ chase: 204/4 in 19 overs
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Top performers: Shreyas Iyer (87* off 41), Nehal Wadhera (48 off 29), Josh Inglis (38 off 21)
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Highlight moment: Hardik Pandya’s direct hit run out of Shashank Singh
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Turning point: PBKS’s 84-run partnership for the fourth wicket
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Finals awaited: PBKS vs RCB
What this means for IPL fans and Punjab Kings supporters
The return of Punjab Kings to the IPL final signals a fresh chapter for the franchise. For years, PBKS fans have waited for a moment like this — to see their team battle fiercely, overcome setbacks, and showcase true grit on the big stage. Shreyas Iyer’s leadership has been instrumental in this turnaround, bringing a blend of calmness and aggression that the team badly needed.
And what a thrill ride this chase was! From Inglis’s explosive start to the nerve-wracking run out and then the late flourish from Iyer, it had everything a cricket fan dreams of.
Looking ahead
Now, with PBKS set to face RCB in the IPL 2025 final, the stage is set for an epic showdown. Both teams have star power, form, and hunger — making the final a match to watch out for. Punjab Kings will hope their leaders continue their inspired performances, while fans everywhere will be excited to see if a new IPL champion will be crowned this year.
So, that’s a wrap on a nail-biting Qualifier 2 that ended with Punjab Kings punching their ticket to the IPL final in style. The rain delay didn’t dampen the excitement; if anything, it built up the tension before the fireworks began.
For fans, the wait for the final just got even sweeter — and the best part? Punjab Kings are back, and they mean business.
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