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In a night of high drama and cricketing brilliance at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off a sensational five-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2025, storming into their first IPL final since 2014. A blistering unbeaten knock of 87 off 41 balls by skipper Shreyas Iyer sealed the deal, as Punjab now gears up for a historic face-off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) — guaranteeing a new IPL champion after 17 seasons.
Shreyas Iyer’s Masterclass: Calm Amidst Chaos
Chasing a formidable 204-run target, PBKS were in early trouble with the top order faltering. But cometh the hour, cometh the man — Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with poise and power. His knock, studded with 8 sixes and 5 fours, turned the game on its head.
Supported ably by Nehal Wadhera, who contributed a gritty 48, the duo stitched an 84-run partnership that broke Mumbai’s back. Iyer’s calculated assault in the death overs ensured Punjab crossed the line with five balls to spare — and sent a message loud and clear: PBKS mean business.
Mumbai’s Explosive Start Falls Short
Mumbai Indians, riding on quickfire knocks from Tilak Varma (56), Jonny Bairstow (44) and Suryakumar Yadav (39), posted a commanding 203/6. But what seemed like a match-winning total soon began to look insufficient, thanks to Punjab’s fearless counterattack.
MI’s bowling lacked the bite in the crunch overs, with veterans like Bumrah and Coetzee unable to contain Iyer’s onslaught.
Punjab Kings’ Bold Strategy Pays Dividends
PBKS’s remarkable turnaround this season has been fuelled by bold decisions off the field. The appointment of Ricky Ponting as head coach and the record-breaking ₹26.75 crore signing of Iyer raised eyebrows — but has now delivered spectacular returns.
This is a team that rebuilt with purpose, backed youth, and stayed aggressive — and their place in the final is a vindication of that vision.
Final Showdown: RCB vs PBKS – A Battle for First Glory
With RCB also making their maiden final appearance, the stage is set for an iconic IPL showdown between two franchises chasing their first-ever IPL title. Emotions will run high, and fans can expect a blockbuster clash that transcends cricketing rivalries.
Whether it’s Kohli’s legacy with RCB or Iyer’s inspirational leadership for PBKS, the IPL 2025 final promises a storybook ending — no matter who lifts the trophy.
