A week ago, Punjab Kings left the cricketing fraternity stunned with a stunning run chase in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League 2025 against Mumbai Indians. At the forefront of this effort was skipper Shreyas Iyer, who played an innings to remember of 87* from a mere 41 balls at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. His brilliance took Punjab to the IPL final, even though their journey was halted in disappointment by a defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on June 3.

Following the ferocious battle against Mumbai, the emotions remained charged as the players greeted each other with traditional handshakes. It was in this instant that Iyer was seen lashing out at teammate Shashank Singh using harsh words in what seemed like an animated argument. Shashank later reported that the tantrum was a result of his own carefree nature at a pivotal moment of the match, and one that could have been expensive. Though the incident created a tense situation, he subsequently ate with Iyer for dinner, acknowledging that the rebuke was warranted.

Shashank openly accepted his loss of concentration and went further to say, "I deserve it; Iyer should have slapped me; my father didn't speak to me till the finals." He admitted, "I was casual; I was walking on the beach, not even in the garden." It was an important moment; Shreyas was firm that I didn't expect this from you, but afterwards he treated me to dinner." The event did not have any impact on their personal equation, reflecting the leadership and maturity of the Punjab Kings captain. 

Praise for a Leader Who Leads with Balance

Even in the wake of the incident, Shashank Singh praised Shreyas Iyer's captaincy to the hilt and labeled him the best captain of present times in world cricket. "Whatever I have told others and witnessed, there is no better captain than him at present times in world cricket," he opined. He pressed upon how Iyer allows his teammates freedom along with accountability, forming a well-balanced atmosphere in which all find a place and are motivated to perform."

Also Read: 3 players RCB should consider trading in after IPL 2025 ft. Smaran Ravichandran

Shashank further commented, "He gives us space; he treats everybody alike. Nobody will say, Shreyas has an attitude. The young ones in the dressing room can get along with him as a chill bandaa (chill guy). Shreyas is the lone captain, who informed us that if somebody has any idea while playing, he can come and tell it to him". If he thinks it's the right counsel, he will accept it. It's not common." This mix of authority and accessibility has turned Shreyas Iyer into one of the most well-respected and successful captains in contemporary cricket.

Despite a stunning season, the five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians had a heartbreaking exit from the IPL 2025 after losing Qualifier 2 against Punjab Kings last Sunday night (June 1). After their IPL 2025 exit, MI owner Akash Ambani came to motivate the entire team.

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians wrote an inspirational story 

Mumbai Indians, who finished in the 10th or last place for the two out of three previous IPL seasons, had a poor start in the IPL 2025 with only one win and four defeats in their first five matches of the season. However, they then made a great comeback with six straight wins and were in the battle to finish in the top two places of the points table. In their last three league stage games, MI won one and lost twice, and finished in fourth place in the points table with 16 points.

In the Eliminator, Mumbai Indians beat Gujarat Titans by 20 runs after scoring 228 runs. Meanwhile, in the rain-affected Qualifier 2, after MI scored 203/6 in 20 overs, Punjab Kings chased down the target in 19 overs after losing five wickets to eliminate the five-time IPL champions.  

After MI experienced a heartbreaking exit, which squashed their dream to become the first IPL side to win the trophy more than five times, owner Akash Ambani came to motivate the entire team, who worked hard and wrote an incredible inspiring story despite failing to win the trophy. During his talk, Akash Ambani also brought one of the quotes of his dad, Mukesh Ambani. 

[WATCH] IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya disheartened by Qualifier 2 loss against PBKS

Situations and circumstances like this can either make two choices: Akash Ambani

Akash Ambani said, "The last thing that I want to leave you with it's actually one of my dad's quotes. Situations and circumstances like this can either make two choices, right? Becoming a bitter person or becoming a better person. And better applies to each and every one individually of what it takes, skill-wise, mentality-wise, team spirit-wise. I am sure as hell and it is certain no one should take whatever is lost bitterly. We should take it better. And understand what it takes. What it takes to be champions of the IPL. Wish you all the best for the upcoming nine months to be, see you guys soon. And thank you for everything."

"Situations and circumstances can either make you a bitter person or a better person."

Akash Ambani spoke in the Dressing Room after #PBKSvMI and gave the team a way forward 💙#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai pic.twitter.com/BfUYthnpuo

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) June 2, 2025

In a stunning scenario after Punjab Kings' (PBKS) dramatic win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, skipper Shreyas Iyer was seen directing his frustration at teammate Shashank Singh. The incident occurred as the teams shook hands during the post-match. Iyer's frustration boiled over after Shashank showed no urgency while running between the wickets during a key moment of the match, which may have cost PBKS the match. Iyer's response demonstrated the level of emotion and desperation involved in the moment and the level of intensity in a match.

This incident illustrates the emotion and pressure involved in playoff situations where every run and every decision is ultimately huge. Shashank is known for his big hitting - and for his calm demeanor - which perhaps made it all the more disappointing that during the tensest part of the game he seemed to be jogging between the wickets, which prompted Iyer's response. This incident did not eclipse PBKS's performance overall, but it shows fine margins often define success.

Shreyas Iyer's Match-Winning Knock

Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 87 from 41 balls was instrumental in PBKS's Qualifier 2 triumph against MI, stabilizing and taking the chase to the end under pressure. His well-judged risks and big shots kept PBKS on track, winning a five-wicket victory with an over to spare.

Watch the video here

#PBKSvsMI Shreyas Iyer angry on Shashank for His absence in running between games … pic.twitter.com/RCMPwJscvY

— . (@itzfcking18) June 1, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians Full Match Highlights

PBKS currently comes up against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 Final, and this encounter promises to be high-stakes and fiercely competitive as both teams battle for the much-desired title. Fans are equally thrilled by the prospect that this match could finally break a year-long title drought for both teams. Notably, in the entire history of the IPL, neither side has ever clinched the championship.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) registered an extraordinary 5-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) while chasing 204 in an exhilarating IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This win granted PBKS a place in the IPL 2025 Final.

Mumbai Indians Innings

MI had a moderate start with Suryakumar Yadav scoring an attractive 44 runs off 26 balls while also having the support of Tilak Varma, who scored 44 runs but took a little longer (29 balls). Jonny Bairstow contributed with 38 runs off 24 balls as MI hit 203 for 6. MI had not taken advantage of the early breakthroughs when Yadav, Bairstow, and Varma scored and lost wickets regularly in the middle overs, away from a late explosion. Among PBKS bowlers, Azmatullah Omarzai was the pick with 2 for 43, while Stoinis and Jamieson also picked up scalps.

Punjab Kings Innings

Chasing 204, PBKS had composed batting performances from all players, with Shreyas Iyer putting the chase to rest with a masterclass knock of 87 runs off just 41 balls.*. Nehal Wadhera scored 48 runs off 29 balls in the middle of the innings, pushing the chase after early wickets. Josh Inglis was vital in the middle with 38 runs off 21 balls, accelerating through the middle overs and attacking MI's bowlers. MI's bowlers, struggling under pressure with ineffective death bowling, saw Ashwani Kumar finishing with 2 for 55. Punjab Kings reached the target in 19 overs with composure and nerves of steel.

Also Read: Top 3 reasons why Mumbai Indians Lost to Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2

PBKS vs MI: Post Match Reactions

Shreyas Iyer (Player of the Match & PBKS Captain): Shreyas Iyer stated that he loves big moments and is able to remain calm while concentrating on his breathing. He also talked about the team having a go-getter attitude and praised the young batters for their fearlessness. Iyer noted that the more time he spends in the crease, the more settled he gets and the more aware of his surroundings. When asked about their loss to RCB earlier, Iyer said it didn't define their season. Iyer feels the job is half done, and now it is about recovery and preparing for the final. 

Nehal Wadhera (PBKS): Nehal Wadhera shared that he loves big matches and was happy to perform well in a big game. Having played previously with MI, he was aware of their bowling plans and adjusted his batting. He did not target anyone purposely and just wanted to convert the balls in his area. Wadhera called Iyer a "chase master" and praised his captainship. Wadhera hopes PBKS can take this confidence into the final.

Hardik Pandya (MI Captain): Hardik Pandya praised Shreyas Iyer’s brilliant knock and admitted PBKS handled the pressure better. He felt MI couldn’t execute well, especially at the death. Pandya took responsibility for his tactical decisions, including Bumrah’s timing. He acknowledged PBKS’s calmness under pressure and accepted the defeat gracefully. Pandya took responsibility for his tactical decisions, including Bumrah’s timing. He acknowledged PBKS’s calmness under pressure and accepted the defeat gracefully.

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

Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians: Match Scorecard

Mumbai Indians – 203/6 (20 Overs)

Punjab Kings – 207/5 (19 Overs)

In the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 matchup, Mumbai Indians faced Punjab Kings. MI batted first, scoring 203/6 in 20 overs with the help of Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, who both finished with 44 runs (Suryakumar off 26 balls and Tilak off 29 balls). Jonny Bairstow also chipped in, scoring 38 runs off 24 balls. MI unfortunately did not finish their innings well, leaving them with a total of 203 runs that could have been higher. PBKS bowler Azmatullah Omarzai took 2/43 off 4 overs, while Marcus Stoinis (1/14) and Kyle Jamieson (1/30) chipped in with a wicket in their 4 overs.

PBKS chased down 204 runs with a score of 207/5 in 19 overs, with Shreyas Iyer, who scored 87* runs off 41 balls, leading the way for PBKS along with Nehal Wadhera, who scored 48 runs off 29 balls, and Josh Inglis, who scored 38 runs off 21 balls. MI Ashwani Kumar took 2/55 off 4 overs, while those MI bowlers Hardik Pandya (1/19) and Trent Boult (1/38) kept a wicket each off their 4 overs. MI’s death bowling was the key reason for MI’s defeat. Therefore, MI’s loss set MI’s investment in the IPL for 2025 at stake as PBKS advanced to the IPL 2025 Final.

1. Shreyas Iyer's match winning knock

Shreyas Iyer produced a blistering innings, making 87 from just 41 deliveries. His timing was impeccable, and his shot selection kept the momentum with Punjab Kings throughout the chase. He ensured that the required run rate remained in check with timely boundaries and good strike rotation. He was so calm under pressure and ensured that his team did not feel panic in crucial moments. This well-paced innings was the basis for Punjab’s successful chase.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians Full Match Highlights

2. Ineffective death bowling by MI

Mumbai Indians never really found a way to halt the free flow of runs in the final overs, regardless of how early inroads were made. Their death bowling lacked both control and discipline, allowing Punjab Kings to score more than 60 runs in just the last 5 overs. Even seasoned operators such as Trent Boult went at more than 10 runs per over, belatedly conceding 38 runs in just his spell. Accepting runs in this manner in this way was exposed by MI’s inability to execute yorkers and slower balls in a pressured environment and proved to be very costly. To cap it off, MI failed to put the finishing touch at the most critical stage.

3. Lack of a big finish in MI innings

Although MI made a competitive 203/6, their batting wasn’t fast enough in the final set of balls to make it virtually impossible to chase down. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma did well, but their individual efforts lacked the capacity for maximum impact. The loss of wickets in the death overs stalled the scoring rate just when a 220+ target seemed achievable. Punjab’s disciplined bowling in the final phase curtailed MI’s momentum. This gave Punjab a realistic chance to chase down the target successfully.

In a spectacular display of batting in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, Josh Inglis of the Punjab Kings produced a thrilling inning against the Mumbai Indians, smashing 20 runs in an over bowled by the great Jasprit Bumrah. This one overexemplified Inglis's attacking intent and showed his ability to take down even the most elite bowlers in the game, and the crowd and commentators were left stunned by the barrage of fours and sixes.

The match, part of the high-stakes playoff series to reach PBKS for the final, and Inglis's performance could be considered the tipping point of the game, as it gave energy to the Punjab chase. Inglis's aggressiveness increased the energy of the Punjab Kings and brought momentum at a key moment in the match - each cricket fan and analyst embraced the audacity of taking on Bumrah, an elite pacer. Fans and analysts alike praised the fearlessness with which Inglis took on Bumrah, one of the world's top pacers.

Inglis’s Impact on the Match

Josh Inglis produced a vital knock of 38 off just 21 balls, striking at an unbelievable rate of 180.95, with 5 fours and 2 sixes included. Certainly, Inglis's over against Bumrah was at a key moment where Punjab Kings needed a push to keep up with the required runs.

Watch the video here

JOSH INGLISH SMASHING BUMRAH FOR 20 RUNS IN AN OVER. 🫡pic.twitter.com/yKhDiNBfQB

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 1, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: AB de Villiers makes bold statement about Suryakumar Yadav’s unique batting style

When the teams took 8 overs, Mumbai Indians had amassed 203/6 in 20 overs. Punjab Kings stood at 72/3, needing 132 from the final 72 balls at a required rate of 11.0. Inglis's explosive innings has resurrected the chase, firmly placing Punjab Kings within reach as we transition into the all-important middle phase of the match.

AB de Villiers, during the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 commentary, hailed Suryakumar Yadav as the "Mr. 360 of the modern era." This statement reflects Yadav's extraordinary ability to play shots all around the wicket, reminiscent of de Villiers' own iconic style. His innovative and versatile batting makes it nearly impossible for bowlers to set fields against him.

De Villiers was specifically impressed by Yadav's unique blend of further finesse and unbridled power. With Yadav's range of adaptability and inventive shot selection pointing to direct comparison with the great South African. His untraditional skills and 360 scoring patterns, make him a content T20 match-winner, who can easily disturb the more disciplined bowling attacks.

The term Mr. 360 represents the batsman's ability to score runs from every angle possible. He has demoralized the opposition with his hard-hitting runs yet is capable of doing so quickly in high-pressure situations - wonderful to watch. Referred to by de Villiers during the key qualifier clash, we saw how Yadav can dominate and single-handedly shift the momentum as a one-man wrecking crew.

Suryakumar Yadav's Impactful Performance in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2

In the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 hosted at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Suryakumar Yadav scored a vital 44 runs from 27 balls on this occasion against Punjab Kings. His dynamic innings featured trademark lofted cover drives and inventive shots to keep the Mumbai Indians' momentum going and set a challenging target.

Watch the video here

🚨Big breaking🚨

AB de Villiers just confirmed Surya Kumar Yadav is the Mr 360 of modern Era #MIvsPBKS
pic.twitter.com/2rRVEnpwbC

— Immy|| 🇮🇳 (@TotallyImro45) June 1, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: Arshdeep Singh reflects on Shreyas Iyer's captaincy for PBKS in IPL 2025

Mumbai Indians scored a tough 203/6 in 20 overs, with Yadav's involvement being crucial. Yadav's ability to accelerate under pressure swung the match in MI's favor. MI gave the Punjab Kings a daunting run rate to chase, assisted with MI's tight bowling during their chase, and Yadav's impact was felt throughout the match.

In the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, the Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians (PBKS vs MI) match is going on at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday night (June 1). For the Mumbai Indians, Richard Gleeson is absent from the squad. Here, we are revealing the reason for Gleeson's missing the MI squad in Qualifier 2.

IPL 2025: Richard Gleeson played one match

Before the drizzle interrupted the game, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to field first. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya revealed that Richard Gleeson would miss the match. Gleeson featured in their last game, which was the Eliminator against Gujarat Titans. It was his first game of the season, who replaced South African Corbin Bosch for the remainder of the tournament, and replaced injured Deepak Chahar to earn his maiden MI cap. 

In that IPL 2025 Eliminator match, while MI won by 20 runs after scoring 228/5, Gleeson had the bowling figures of 3.3-0-39-1. He delivered the final over of the match despite niggle issues, while GT needed 24 runs to win, and Gleeson conceded only three runs before deciding to go off, as Ashwani Kumar ended that over. 

WATCH: Arshdeep Singh reflects on Shreyas Iyer's captaincy for PBKS in IPL 2025

IPL 2025, Qualifier 2, PBKS vs MI: Why is Richard Gleeson not playing?

The 37-year-old English pacer Richard Gleeson has a niggle, and it has forced him to miss the Qualifier 2. Another English pacer Reece Topley has replaced Gleeson for Qualifier 2.  

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have experiened one key change, as Yuzvendra Chahal is back after recovering from wrist injury, as he missed out on their last three matches, including the Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are already in the IPL 2025 Final and waiting for their opponent. The winners of Qualifier 2 will advance to the IPL 2025 Final and will face RCB on Tuesday evening (June 3) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.  

Mumbai Indians (MI) are five-time IPL champions, the joint-most IPL trophy successes for a team, along with Chennai Super Kings. In fact, MI were the first IPL team to win the trophy five times. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have played only IPL Final, and it was back in the 2014 edition, where Kolkata Knight Riders beat them in the Final. On the other hand, RCB are the three-time IPL runners-up. 

Shreyas Iyer has become the catalyst for Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) incredible comeback in IPL 2025. Ahead of their clash against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 at Narendra Modi Stadium on June 1, fans and experts alike have applauded Iyer’s composed but commanding leadership. The 30-year-old, a Champions Trophy winner, has taught a side that had not reached the playoffs in 10 seasons discipline and belief in themselves. His batting performances and heady decision-making have played a significant role in what has been the best season for PBKS in ages.

In a recently aired Star Sports video, several of PBKS’s young players recalled Iyer’s leadership and how he has cultivated a winning environment for the franchise. Leading wicket-taker Arshdeep Singh revealed how Iyer gives his team complete backing and lets them play without any baggage. “I’ve played under Iyer in the Duleep Trophy, and he was a great leader. He doesn’t give strict instructions; he just tells us to trust ourselves and what we are capable of. He creates a very selfless team environment, and that is why we all want to give our best for him.” Arshdeep’s sentiments were echoed by other young stars, emphasizing the unifying effect Iyer has had on the squad.

Prabhsimran Singh, who opened the batting alongside Iyer, also spoke about the instincts and fearlessness of the Skipper. “He talks about trusting your instincts all the time. If you have to second-guess a shot, don't hit it. But if you are confident, then go for it," Prabhsimran said. “He is batting like a world number one - clean hitting, smart decisions, and match-finishing innings. He gets us to play with freedom and clarity." The message from the PBKS young core definitively notes Shreyas Iyer's captaincy has changed their perspective. 

Shreyas Iyer on the verge of making IPL history

In the last IPL season, Shreyas Iyer led the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title, demonstrating he is made of captaincy steel, and now leading PBKS, he is on the brink of making history. A win in IPL 2025 will make Iyer the third captain to win two consecutive IPL titles and the only captain to do so with two franchises, marking him a bona fide leader in IPL history.

Watch the video here

The PBKS squad throws full support behind skipper #ShreyasIyer as they gear up for a high-stakes clash against MI, with a spot in the final vs RCB on the line 🤯

Will PBKS lift their first IPL trophy under Iyer’s leadership? 🤔#IPLPlayoffs 👉 QUALIFIER 2 | #PBKSvMI | SUN, 1st… pic.twitter.com/9KWFOwQUs6

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 1, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: Nigerians replicate Rishabh Pant's cartwheel celebration against RCB in IPL 2025

Iyer has had players rallying and believing in one another in a way we have never witnessed before. His strategic acumen and fearless batting have not only earned him the trust of PBKS players but also the adoration of fans, who see him as the driving force behind the team’s remarkable turnaround this season.

The match between the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and the Mumbai Indians (MI) is set to take place on June 01, 2025, at the Narendra Modi International Stadium, Ahmedabad. This fixture promises an intense battle between two power-packed teams as IPL 2025 enters a crucial phase.

Match Details:

• Date: June 01, 2025
• Time: 07:30 PM IST
• Venue: Narendra Modi International Stadium, Ahmedabad
• Win % Batting First: 46%
• Win % Bowling First: 54%

Weather and Pitch Conditions:

Weather:

• The weather in Ahmedabad is expected to be warm and dry, with clear skies throughout the match duration.
• Humidity: Around 30%, offering comfortable playing conditions for the teams.
• Rain: No rain is forecast, ensuring a full 40-over game without interruptions.

Pitch:

• The Narendra Modi International Stadium surface is typically known for being slow and low, especially in the second half.
• In the initial overs, pacers may extract some movement, but it becomes more spin-friendly as the game progresses.
• Batters will have to be cautious while accelerating, especially in the middle overs, due to the dry and worn nature of the pitch.
• Stroke-making is possible early in the innings, but bowlers will dominate in the second half.

Average Score Batting First (Last Season): 177
Average Score Batting Second (Last Season): 189
Wins Batting First in Last Five Games: 2
Wins Bowling First in Last Five Games: 3

Also read- IPL 2025: 3 reasons why PBKS deserve to be the winners in Qualifier 2

 Venue Records:

• Highest Team Total: 243/5 by PBKS vs GT
• Lowest Team Total: 89 all out by GT vs DC
• Average First Innings Score: Around 182 runs