The Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer's popularity seems to be surging with every passing day. Despite crashing out against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 Final, Shreyas has earned the respect of his fans and his close followers. His popularity can be largely attributed to his tactical acumen and his ability to score big under pressure. To offer him a token of respect, fans, especially from the state of Punjab gave him a nickname 'Sarpanch Sahab' roughly translating to the Head of the Group. 

See also: What's behind Shreyas' new nickname? PBKS skipper reveals the truth

While his nickname 'Sarpanch Sahab' has stayed on following the end of the IPL and fans still seem excited to capture a glimse of the iconic IPL stalwart. In a recent video which has now gone viral, a fan, posing with a 'Sarpanch Sahab' poster received an autograph from Shreyas while he was exiting the stadium in a car. The car was stopped midway so the fan could get an autograph from his beloved cricketer. While Shreyas was signing the poster, the fan also captured the moment by taking a selfie with the PBKS skipper in the frame. 

Watch the video here:

Shreyas Iyer gave an autograph to a fan of Sarpanch Sahab poster. ❤️pic.twitter.com/96JRVmXgZm

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 11, 2025

The poster had a white background with the PBKS captain's new nickname written at the center in uppercase. However, his own signature was at the bottom right corner of the poster. 

Shreyas Iyer was in rich form in IPL 2025

Shreyas was in phenomenal form during the recent IPL season, emerging as the highest run-scorer for his team with 604 runs in 17 innings. He maintained an impressive average of 50.33 and notched up six half-centuries, placing him as the sixth-highest run-getter overall in the tournament. His consistency with the bat provided the team with solid starts and momentum at crucial moments. Beyond just scoring runs, Shreyas's ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed showcased his maturity and adaptability as a top-order batter.

Apart from his batting prowess, Shreyas's leadership proved to be a game-changer for PBKS. He fostered a positive, fearless culture within the dressing room and empowered the younger players to perform with confidence. His tactical decisions and calm demeanor on the field played a significant role in transforming PBKS’s campaign. Under his captaincy, the team reached the IPL final for the first time since 2014 and came heartbreakingly close to securing their first-ever IPL title, marking a remarkable turnaround for the franchise.

Punjab Kings' campaign in the IPL 2025 might have come to an end in disappointment, but co-owner Preity Zinta preferred to look at the silver lining in a moving Instagram post posted three days after the final. On June 3, PBKS came up short in their first title, going down by 6 runs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). But the defeat did not overshadow what was an extraordinary season for the side. Zinta's letter complimented captain Shreyas Iyer and the team for their performance, passion, and determination.

In her sentimental post, Preity started, "It didn't end the way we wanted it to, but...the journey was spectacular! It was thrilling, engaging, & inspiring. I cherished the battle & the grit our young group, our shers, demonstrated throughout the tournament." I enjoyed how our captain, our Sarpanch, led from the front & how Indian uncapped players ruled this IPL!" Her appreciation for the captain and the young guns of PBKS was evident as she discussed their unmatched performances.

She continued, “This year was unique. We smashed records even though we lost key players to injury & national duty, witnessed a pause in the tournament, transferred home games to other states, & evacuated a stadium! We adapted & topped the points table after a decade & fought till the end in an exciting final.” The actress credited the entire PBKS unit for maintaining composure under pressure and delivering memorable moments throughout the campaign.

"Job Half Done, But We Will Be Back": Preity's Promise to Supporters

Preity did not constrain herself to just commending the on-field performances. Zinta thanked the whole PBKS family and support staff by stating, “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to each one of them, our support staff, and everyone at PBKS for an incredible season. Most importantly, a HEARTFELT THANK YOU to our SHER SQUAD, our FANS that stood with us through thick and thin." Her note resonated amongst supporters and drew in their comments reserved for pride and loyalty.

It didn’t end the way we wanted it to but….the journey was spectacular ! It was exciting, entertaining & it was inspiring. I loved the fight & the grit our young team, our shers showed throughout the tournament. I loved the way our captain, our Sarpanch lead from the front &… pic.twitter.com/kUtRs908aS

— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) June 6, 2025

Also Read: Gautam Gambhir backs Karun Nair's inclusion for England Tests

Concluding her note with hopes and determination, Zinta ended with, “The job is half done & we are determined to finish it. See you in 1 year." The IPL trophy may not be the one that eluded Punjab Kings, but there was a sense of hope within the actress's note as regards the 2026 season.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) has shared a heartfelt video regarding the IPL 2025 final and the aftermath. PBKS performed in a promising way under Shreyas Iyer's leadership, and at a point in the final, the momentum of the contest was with the Punjab Kings. But in the end, the moment turned out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). 

In the video edited and published by PBKS, we can see PBKS players on the ground, disappointed, with sad faces and numb eyes. They couldn't believe their fates after fighting so brilliantly all throughout the seasons. Chris Gayle was there in an RCB jersey, also a former Punjab player, who came forward to support the defeated players at Ahmedabad. Shreyas Iyer, the captain of the runner-up team, spotted Virat Kohli; they had a conversation together. 

Punjab Kings was looking under control throughout the first innings and during the initial stage of the second. With them, the ball PBKS bowlers did not allow RCB batters to go all out with their big hits. Despite leaking some runs, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh, and Yuzvendra Chahal's bowling department was able to stop Royal Challengers Bengaluru within 200, restricting them to 190 in 20 overs. 

Read More: WATCH: RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat delivers emotional Thank You speech after historic IPL title win

That catch from Phil Salt was something came out of the equation 

With the bat, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh started well, looking dangerous and dealing with boundaries. Phil Salt did an unthinkable stunt just inside the boundary line, an outstanding catch to dismiss Arya. From there, RCB found their momentum and never turned back. Krunal Pandya helped Singh and Josh Inglis to cut their innings short. Pandya, the best performer in the final, got the bowling figure of 4-0-17-2. 

Punjab Kings displayed one of their most dominating performances in the history of IPL. They qualified for the round of four after finishing first in the points table. In the Qualifier 1 they lost against RCB and bounced back after defeating Mumbai Indians to confirm a place in the final, where they again couldn't prove themselves better than RCB. 

Watch the edit here 

You win some, you lose some! 🥺 pic.twitter.com/qnXgtJwjkc

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) June 4, 2025

Cricket's largest entertainer, Chris Gayle, has stolen the limelight once again, this time off the field, as he weighed his support in favor of both Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) before the eagerly anticipated IPL 2025 final. The high-voltage encounter is to be played at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, and Gayle's presence has already lent a dose of star power to the grand event.

In a going-viral Instagram video, Gayle presented his trademark fashion sense and age-old connections with both franchises by wearing a bespoke combination: an RCB jersey over a classic Punjabi turban, and flashy red-and-gold colored theme shoes, a reference to his memorable stint with the Bengaluru team. "Let The Game Begin! RCB v PBKS #OneIndia #IPL #Finals #2025," Gayle captioned, encapsulating the essence of the evening in a single sentence.

A Tale of Two Franchises and One Legend

Having played for both franchises in his IPL career, Gayle's allegiance goes deep on either side. At RCB, he was a devastating force between 2011 and 2017, aggregating more than 3,100 runs, including five hundreds, and the historic 175*- a knock still indelibly written in IPL lore. Later, representing the colours of PBKS between 2018 and 2021, he performed sensationally, scoring a century and ten half-centuries in 41 innings. With his bold strokeplay and charismatic presence, Gayle was a crowd favourite irrespective of what colours he played for. 

Now that both his previous sides are finally meeting for their first-ever IPL title, Gayle's heart is divided, but his message is loud and clear: it is about the celebration of the game, the journey, and the people.

ALSO SEE: WATCH: Shankar Mahadevan releases heartfelt musical tribute to armed forces ahead of IPL 2025 Final

Watch the video:

The Universe Boss in the house! 🙌🔥#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #IPL2025 #RCBvPBKS pic.twitter.com/ePNrXzk76k

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) June 3, 2025

RCB vs PBKS: The Long-Awaited Final

The two sides went into the final with equal league points (19), but quite dissimilar journeys. RCB, under Rajat Patidar's leadership, defeated PBKS in Qualifier 1 after placing second on the table. Punjab, though, came back through a gritty victory against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 to earn a second chance at glory. RCB keeps riding on the form of Virat Kohli (614 runs in the season) and Josh Hazlewood (21 wickets), while PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer has taken a cue from the front with 603 runs at a strike rate of almost 176. Before the toss, Narendra Modi Stadium was abuzz with excitement, and it was PBKS who won the toss, deciding to field first, given the surface, which has been batting-friendly, and the advantage of chasing under lights.

Chris Gayle didn't arrive, he arrived. His symbolic attire, representing the heritage of RCB and PBKS, was not fashionable. It was a reminder of the multicultural heart of the IPL and the journey of a man who was a legend in both camps. Whether you support Kohli's team or are a follower of Iyer's army, Gayle is the common thread. After 18 years, either one of these sides will finally dispel the "trophyless" label, and Gayle, the ageless prankster, is there to see it. One final. Two fervent teams. And the Universe Boss is in attendance. Let the theatrics begin.

Shreyas Iyer has carved a remarkable legacy as a captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading teams to significant milestones over the years. His tactical acumen and leadership have made him a standout figure in the tournament’s history.

Playoffs After 7 Long Seasons with Delhi Capitals (2019)

In 2019, Iyer was appointed captain of Delhi Capitals (DC) and strictly injured the mediocrity that the franchise endured over the last 7 years, as it did not prepare for playoffs in those past years. Under Iyer’s leadership, DC reached the playoffs and made the team finish 3rd in the league stage with 18 points from 14 matches. His rookie status, his calmness, and his motivation were immeasurable in overcoming a long history of mediocrity. 

First-Ever Final in 13 Seasons with Delhi Capitals (2020)

Iyer's captaincy reached its peak in 2020 when he led Delhi Capitals to their first IPL final in the franchise's history that spanned 13 years. DC presented incredible consistency as they finished second in the league stage with 16 points. Iyer's tactics, such as supporting young guns like Prithvi Shaw and using veterans like Kagiso Rabada to best effect, took the team to the final. While they lost to Mumbai Indians, Iyer's captaincy had established DC as a strong unit.

Also Read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Shreyas Iyer's angry reaction on Shashank Singh after win over MI in Qualifier 2

Title Glory After 10 Seasons with Kolkata Knight Riders (2024)

In 2024, Iyer captained Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title and the franchise's first in 10 seasons. KKR was dominant all year and ranked first in the points table before beating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final. Iyer combined a hyper-aggressive style of captaincy with the team management of a star-studded team with Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. 

Final After 11 Seasons with Punjab Kings (2025)

Iyer's most recent achievement was guiding Punjab Kings (PBKS) to the IPL final in 2025 after 11 seasons. Even during this time, PBKS was never able to put it all together as a consistently performing team. Iyer brought that level of stability to the franchise and took them to the final with the help of outstanding performances by players like Arshdeep Singh. Despite falling short of the title in 2025, Iyer's mark at PBKS was impressive and further expanded his already illustrious tenure as a captain in the IPL.

Mumbai Indians are one of the most successful franchises in the history of the IPL. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings share a combined 10 IPL titles, with five each, the most achieved by any IPL franchise. The five-time champions know what it takes to reach and conquer the top summit. Over the years, the Mumbai-based franchise has experienced a pattern of peaking just towards the business end of the tournament. 

But in this season, MI hit the ground running right from the onset and on the back of some consistent performances, were able to secure a position in the second Qualifier. The experience of Rohit and Hardik, two of MI's senior pros, and the X-factor of Bumrah gives the side an edge over PBKS to prevail in this upcoming do-or-die Qualifier. 

In this article, we will uncover three reasons why MI deserve to play the final against RCB on June 3. 

See also: Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians (PBKS vs MI): Qualifier 2, IPL 2025, Match Preview

Dominant Batting Performance

MI have some power hitters in their bank who can switch gears irrespective of the current state of the game. They have assembled one of the most explosive batting line-ups in IPL 2025, with a powerful mix of experience and aggression. The likes of Surya, Hardik, and Rohit, who can run away with the game once they start middling the ball. In the Eliminator against GT, MI batters showcased an unprecedented degree of resilience by posting a formidable total of 228/5. Significant contributions were made from Rohit, who slammed 81 runs off 50 balls, including 9 fours and 4 sixes, followed by additional quick-fire contributions from Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya.  Besides, Jonny Bairstow's late inclusion bolstered the MI squad. He had an impressive outing in the Eliminator clash, scoring 47 runs off 22 balls to help MI set the tone early doors. With in-form batters in their batting department, MI have the ability to mount towering totals and crush teams batting last.

Strategic Bowling Excellence

With Jasprit Bumrah in the ranks, MI have some potent weapons in the bowling arsenal. Bumrah's death bowling skills are second to none, and his ability to deliver under pressure has been a cornerstone of MI's bowling strategy. In a league that shows no mercy to the bowlers, Bumrah has maintained an astonishing low economy rate of 6.36 RPO. Bumrah's performance in the Eliminator was particularly noteworthy, with former cricketer AB de Villiers praising him as the ultimate game-changer. Furthermore, MI also have variety in their bowling attack. Santner is a crafty spinner and can operate with the new ball and also the old ball. Moreover, Hardik is a true match-winner for his side, be it with the bat or the ball. The flamboyant bowling all-rounder has an overall good reputation with the ball despite having a tendency to err on the higher side. 

Tactical Leadership and Momentum

Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, MI have demonstrated tactical brilliance and adaptability. Pandya's decision-making and on-field strategies have been pivotal in navigating challenging situations. Additionally, MI's recent form, including a significant win over the Gujarat Titans, has bolstered their confidence and momentum heading into Qualifier 2. 

With a balanced blend of explosive batting, strategic bowling, and astute leadership, MI have positioned themselves as strong contenders for the IPL 2025 title.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) qualified in the top 2 as a deserving team, and they are now set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Qualifier 1 match. Both of the teams have been performing almost with the same intensity so far in IPL 2025. But there are at least 3 reasons explaining why Punjab Kings should win against RCB in the upcoming Qualifier 1 match. 

Top 3 reasons Punjab Kings can outclass RCB:

Collective Performance: Royal Challengers Bengaluru has Virat Kohli, Mumbai Indians has Rohit Sharma, but Punjab Kings has no superstar cricketer at the core of the squad. PBKS management built the team around plenty of underrated cricketers like Yuzvendra Chahal, Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis, Shashank Singh, and many others, with Shreyas Iyer as the captain at the top of the team—that's all they need for PBKS to reach the top 2 and Qualifier 1 match. 

Shreyas Iyer as captain: Shreyas Iyer steadily but silently has created his legacy in the Indian Premier League. Under his captaincy, so far three different teams have reached the playoffs, including Punjab Kings. Before his project with PBKS, Iyer led Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders to the playoffs. Last season, the Knight Riders won the IPL title with the help of Iyer. Instant on-field strategy and communication with players are some of Iyer's skills as a leader. 

Read More: IPL 2025: Top 3 reasons RCB should win Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings

Confidence: Self-confidence can change a player's body language and a team's character. Before the beginning of IPL 2025, Shashank Singh did not hesitate to say that their team would qualify for the play-off. That's the confidence, the vital element a team needs to be successful, and PBKS has the element. The infusion of self-belief and the will to win makes PBKS perform on the field like a king. 

IPL 2025 playoff fixtures

Qualifier 1, May 29: Punjab Kings vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru—Mullanpur

Eliminator, May 30: Gujarat Titans vs. Mumbai Indians—Mullanpur

Qualifier 2, June 1: Qualifier 1 loser vs. Eliminator winner—Ahmedabad

Final, June 3: Qualifier 1 winner vs. Qualifier 2 winner—Ahmedabad

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have achieved a historic record in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by being the first team in history to have 10 different batsmen score 50 or more in one season. This unprecedented record not just proves their batting depth but also the versatility and balance of the team during the high-profile 2025 season.

At the helm of this incredible lineup is Virat Kohli himself, who has been in sensational touch with 8 fifties, holding up RCB's innings at the most crucial moments. Backing him are the likes of Phil Salt (3 fifties) and Rajat Patidar (2 fifties), both of whom have produced thunderous beginnings and important partnerships with regularity. Young player Devdutt Padikkal also chipped in with two respectable half-centuries in the top order option.

RCB's one of the surprises is how their batting has not just been limited to their top order. The middle and lower-middle order has done work under pressure as well, with Jitesh Sharma, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, and Krunal Pandya all getting a fifty. Some of them were depending on innings where the team was struggling, whereby the team could build momentum and post finishes with skill and challenging targets in the chase. With a total of 21 fifties spread across 10 players, RCB have redefined what a balanced, team-centric batting unit looks like in the IPL. It’s a record that not only speaks to individual brilliance but also to the strategic depth and flexibility of the squad.

RCB Gears Up for High-Stakes Clash Against PBKS in Qualifier 1

With the group stage complete, Royal Challengers Bengaluru now prepare for Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 29. With momentum on their side and an unblemished away record this season, RCB will seek to take advantage of their form and home advantage as they try to finally win their first IPL trophy.

Also Read: [WATCH] Hardik awkwardly behaves with the PBKS skipper, refuses to shake hands twice

RCB has made a good case for being one of the top contenders after their current round of performances. Through regular batting performance, good tactics, and a historic unbeaten run on the road, RCB has proven to be a tough team to beat. With the playoffs upon us, everyone is wondering if Bengaluru can take that momentum into the playoffs and if they can win their first IPL title, finally.

PBKS are having a stellar run in this year's IPL season. The 2014 IPL finalists are brewing with a lot of confidence under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, who now finds himself on the cusp of two consecutive title wins. On May 26, PBKS were slated to face off against the mighty MI and entered as clear underdogs for obvious reasons. But an enthralling counter-punch from Inglis and Arya in the second half knocked the five-time champions out in perhaps one of the most unbelievable fashions.

Following PBKS's dominating 7-wicket victory last night, Yuzvendra Chahal burst into joy as he showed off his dance skills and celebrated the win with his younger teammates. The Punjab-based franchise has displaced GT from the top position and has entered the top two, which effectively means that, in all likelihood, they will be playing Qualifier No. 1. 

See also: WATCH: Viral moment when Shashank Singh predicted PBKS will end up in top 2 before start of IPL 2025

Chahal breaks into celebration and shows his dance moves

In a recent video posted by the franchise's Instagram handle, Chahal featured alongside his junior mates, most notably Brar and Arya, and was seen dancing to a Punjabi song in the dressing room. While Chahal appeared at the front, the other two youngsters were right behind him. The joyful expression on their faces was something that couldn't have been ignored. 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Punjab Kings (@punjabkingsipl)

Will Chahal take part in the playoffs?

After suffering from a finger injury, Chahal's participation for the remainder of the tournament is clouded with uncertainty. The veteran spinner is in real danger of missing out on crucial playoff games for his side. While Chahal's absence was hardly felt in the prior encounter, PBKS would want him to be fully fit so that he can resume from where he had supposedly left off. 

The 34-year-old currently ranks as their third-highest wicket-taker for this season. Chahal has snapped 14 scalps across 11 innings, maintaining an average of 25.28, an economy rate of 9.56, and a strike rate of 15.8.

Gujarat Titans' loss to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday has completely opened the battle for a spot in the top 2 spots in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 points table. While the four teams - Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB))—have achieved their spots in the Playoffs, only two of them can earn the privilege of playing in Qualifier 1, where they have the extra chance to qualify for the final.

GT is currently at the top of the points table with 18 points, having played all their league matches. On the table, they are stalking with caution, with the loss against CSK the last memory; all they have to hope for are other results in their favor. PBKS and MI will be playing next, with RCB playing against Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, and the results of these two games will determine who takes the two top spots.

Qualifier 1 is hugely beneficial, as the winner progresses directly to the final and the losing team gets a second chance in Qualifier 2, whereas the third and fourth place teams get to play the Eliminator - that is, a knockout match that will see off the loser.

What each team needs to get a top-two finish:

Punjab Kings (17 points): A win against MI will push PBKS to 19 points and ensure a top-two finish. A loss means they go into the Eliminator.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17 points): RCB must beat LSG to have a chance for a top-two finish. If they lose against LSG, their chances are slim at best, depending on net run rate.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 67: Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings Full Match Highlights

Mumbai Indians (16 points): A win over PBKS gives MI 18 points—which may get them a top-two finish depending on the RCB result.

Gujarat Titans (18 points): GT needs PBKS and RCB to lose assuredly. If they do, GT finishes in the top two along with MI.

The league stage is nearing the end, and the battle for the top two has never been hotter or more discouraging, as each run scored is critical. The next two games determine the road to the IPL 2025 final.