Punjab Kings (PBKS) created history on Sunday, June 1, by defeating Mumbai Indians (MI) in the second qualifier of IPL 2025 to reach the final. The thrilling encounter at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium saw PBKS chase down a challenging 204-run target with five wickets in hand, thanks to a sensational unbeaten knock of 87 from captain Shreyas Iyer.
Shreyas Iyer’s Heroics Guide PBKS to Final
Captain Shreyas Iyer led from the front, smashing 87* off just 41 deliveries. His match-winning innings featured 5 fours and 8 sixes, and he sealed the victory with a massive six off Ashwani Kumar in the 19th over. Iyer’s powerful performance not only secured the win but also earned him a place in the record books.
This was Iyer’s 50th win as an IPL captain, putting him in elite company. He now trails only MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, and Virat Kohli in terms of most IPL wins as a captain.
Most IPL Wins as Captain:
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MS Dhoni (CSK/RPSG) – 136
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Rohit Sharma (MI) – 87
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Gautam Gambhir (KKR/DC) – 71
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Virat Kohli (RCB) – 66
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Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – 50*
A Special Moment for Preity Zinta
PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta stole the spotlight with her heartfelt reaction after the winning six. She jumped from her seat, cheered passionately, and celebrated with tears of joy. Her emotional response quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising her unwavering support for the team over the years.
Preity’s excitement captured the hearts of fans, with clips of her celebration widely shared under hashtags like #PBKSvsMI, #PreityZinta, and #IPL2025Final.
Historic Feat for Shreyas Iyer
With this win, Shreyas Iyer became the first captain in IPL history to lead three different teams to the finals. He also made history by becoming the first to take two different franchises to back-to-back IPL finals in consecutive years. Iyer’s leadership journey continues to impress fans and experts alike.
During the run chase, Iyer built a crucial 84-run partnership with Nehal Wadhera, who contributed 48 valuable runs. Later, he added an unbeaten 38-run stand with Marcus Stoinis, ensuring PBKS crossed the finish line with an over to spare.
PBKS vs RCB Final Set for June 3
Punjab Kings will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 final on Tuesday, June 3, at the same venue—Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This will be a historic clash, as neither team has won an IPL title despite being part of the league since its inception in 2008.
The upcoming final guarantees a first-time IPL champion, with both fanbases eagerly waiting to see their team lift the trophy for the first time.
What to Expect in the Final
Fans can expect a high-voltage encounter between two of the most passionate and loyal fan-supported teams. With form, momentum, and history on the line, PBKS and RCB are set to battle it out for IPL glory.
Key Players to Watch:
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Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – Captain in red-hot form
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Virat Kohli (RCB) – Determined to win his first IPL title
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Mohammed Siraj (RCB) – In top bowling form
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Nehal Wadhera (PBKS) – Emerging as a key middle-order asset
Shreyas Iyer’s match-winning knock and Preity Zinta’s emotional celebration have set the stage for a thrilling IPL 2025 finale. As PBKS prepares to face RCB, fans are guaranteed a night of high drama, unforgettable moments, and, finally, a new IPL champion.