Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-06-02 08:44:33 |
Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 34
Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured a memorable five-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, booking their maiden spot in the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The high-stakes clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad witnessed Shreyas Iyer leading from the front with a stunning unbeaten 87 off just 41 deliveries.
Chasing a daunting target of 204, PBKS got off to a brisk start, thanks to Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who launched a fierce assault on Jasprit Bumrah, taking 20 runs off a single over. Inglis scored a quickfire 38 off 21 balls, setting the tone for the chase. Following his departure, Nehal Wadhera stepped in and played a crucial knock of 48 off 29 balls. His 84-run partnership with Iyer laid the foundation for PBKS to complete the chase with six balls to spare.
Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a blend of composure and aggression, guiding the team home in a high-pressure playoff match. His calculated acceleration towards the end ensured MI had no chance to bounce back, as PBKS crossed the finish line at 204/5.
Earlier, Mumbai Indians put up a strong total of 203/6 after being invited to bat first. Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav were the standout performers for MI, scoring 44 runs each and stitching a 72-run stand for the third wicket. Their efforts were complemented by a late flourish from Naman Dhir, who smashed 37 off 18 balls to push MI past the 200-run mark.
Despite MI's formidable total, their bowlers struggled to contain PBKS in the chase. The defeat ended Mumbai's hopes of another IPL title, while Punjab Kings stormed into the IPL final for the first time in history. They will now face RCB in what promises to be an electrifying finale.