Fans Celebrate As Captain Shreyas Iyer Takes Preity Zinta’s Punjab Kings Into IPL 2025 Final After Win Over Mumbai Indians

In a pulsating Qualifier 2 clash at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) scripted a historic five-wicket victory over the Mumbai Indians (MI), chasing down a formidable target of 204 runs to secure their place in the IPL 2025 final. This triumph marks PBKS’s first final appearance since 2014, ending an 11-year wait and setting up a tantalizing showdown with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on June 3 .

Mumbai Indians Set a Challenging Total

Opting to bat first, Mumbai Indians posted a competitive 203/6 on a surface offering some assistance to the bowlers. Suryakumar Yadav led the charge with a fluent 44 off 26 balls, complemented by Tilak Varma’s steady 44 off 29 deliveries. Despite a strong foundation, MI couldn’t fully capitalize in the death overs, thanks to disciplined bowling from PBKS. Azmatullah Omarzai emerged as the standout bowler, claiming 2 wickets for 43 runs, including the crucial scalps of Hardik Pandya and Naman Dhir, which curtailed MI’s momentum in the final overs .

Shreyas Iyer’s Captaincy Masterclass

Chasing a daunting target, PBKS found a hero in their captain, Shreyas Iyer, who delivered an unbeaten 87 off just 41 balls. His innings, laced with 5 boundaries and 8 towering sixes, was a blend of elegance and aggression. Iyer’s assault included a game-changing 26-run over off Ashwani Kumar, which shifted the momentum decisively in PBKS’s favor.

This performance not only propelled PBKS into the final but also etched Iyer’s name in the record books. He became the first captain to lead three different franchises—Delhi Capitals (2020), Kolkata Knight Riders (2024), and Punjab Kings (2025)—to IPL finals, underscoring his exceptional leadership qualities.

Nehal Wadhera’s Crucial Support

Complementing Iyer’s brilliance was Nehal Wadhera, who played a pivotal role with a composed 48 off 29 balls. Wadhera’s ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries at crucial junctures ensured that the required run rate remained within reach. Their partnership of 84 runs laid the foundation for PBKS’s successful chase .

Historic Chase and Record-Breaking Feat

PBKS’s chase of 204 runs stands as the highest successful run chase in IPL playoff history, surpassing previous records and highlighting the team’s resilience under pressure . The victory also marked PBKS’s first-ever win over MI in a playoff match, adding another feather to their cap.

Reactions and Celebrations

The cricketing fraternity lauded PBKS’s performance, with business magnate Anand Mahindra praising Iyer’s courage and leadership. Mahindra’s social media post went viral, reflecting the widespread admiration for the team’s achievement .

Off the field, co-owner Preity Zinta’s exuberant celebration, including a playful wink, captured the hearts of fans and became a viral sensation, symbolizing the team’s spirited journey to the final .

Looking Ahead: The Final Showdown

With this victory, PBKS sets up a thrilling final against RCB, who are also in pursuit of their maiden IPL title. Both teams, having shown remarkable form throughout the season, promise an electrifying contest on June 3. As PBKS aims to cap off their remarkable journey with a championship, fans eagerly await a clash that could redefine IPL history .

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