In an electrifying Qualifier 2 of IPL 2025, Shreyas Iyer scripted history by becoming the first captain to lead three different franchises to an IPL final. Under his dynamic leadership, Punjab Kings (PBKS) defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) by five wickets in a high-scoring thriller and secured their spot in the final for the first time in over a decade.
🏏 Shreyas Iyer: A Captain Like No Other
Iyer has previously led Delhi Capitals (2020) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2024) to the finals. With Punjab Kings joining that elite list, he now stands alone as a trailblazing tactician and one of the most successful captains in IPL history.
In this match, Iyer’s leadership was matched by his blazing form with the bat. He smashed an unbeaten 87 off 41 balls, including 8 towering sixes, playing a match-winning knock that stunned Mumbai and thrilled fans across the globe.
🔥 PBKS Break Records in a High-Octane Chase
Set a daunting target of 204 runs by the Mumbai Indians, PBKS chased it down in just 18.4 overs – the highest successful chase in IPL playoff history. This was also the first time any team chased a 200+ total against Mumbai Indians in IPL history.
This victory also marked the eighth successful chase of 200+ targets by PBKS – the most by any team in IPL history – reflecting their explosive batting depth and fearless mindset under pressure.
🏆 A New Champion Guaranteed: PBKS vs RCB Final Awaits
The IPL 2025 final will be a clash of two underdog narratives as Punjab Kings face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on June 3. With both franchises eyeing their first-ever IPL title, the stage is set for a truly historic and emotional showdown.
