Shreyas Iyer Leads Punjab Kings to Historic IPL 2025 Final with Thrilling Win Over Mumbai Indians

Shreyas Iyer Powers Punjab Kings to Second IPL Final After Record Chase Against Mumbai Indians

Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured a dramatic win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025’s qualifier, thanks to a masterclass from Shreyas Iyer, who smashed an unbeaten 87* to take his team to their second IPL final. In a high-scoring thriller, PBKS chased down Mumbai’s imposing total of 203, breaking MI’s proud record of never losing when defending scores above 200.

Shreyas Iyer: The Chase Master

Arriving in the last over of the powerplay, Shreyas Iyer played one of the finest IPL chases ever witnessed. He dismantled the famed MI attack, including ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, whose otherwise invincible yorkers met their match. Iyer’s ability to find boundaries effortlessly under pressure, including a hat-trick of sixes off Reece Topley, turned the game. He commanded the chase with nerves of steel, ensuring PBKS crossed the finish line with balls to spare.

Key Supporting Acts

While Iyer stole the headlines, Nehal Wadhera (48 off 39 balls) and Josh Inglis provided vital support. Wadhera capitalized on multiple chances, playing crucial strokes in the middle overs. Josh Inglis swung the momentum further towards PBKS, taking 20 off a Bumrah over that changed the dynamic of the chase.

Mumbai Indians Set the Stage

Put into bat, MI posted 203/6, riding on Suryakumar Yadav (44) and Tilak Varma (44). The pair set up a platform, but quick wickets in the middle overs hampered the final push. Naman Dhir’s explosive finishing (37 off 18) powered MI above the 200-mark, but it ultimately proved insufficient on the day.

Bowling Brilliance

PBKS bowlers, including Kyle Jamieson and Arshdeep Singh, executed smart variations, especially by taking pace off the ball in the death overs. Crucial wickets at the right moments ensured MI couldn’t get the late surge they desired.

Historic PBKS Victory and A New Power in IPL

This iconic victory signals a power shift in the IPL. Punjab Kings will now face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in what promises to be a thrilling IPL 2025 final. Shreyas Iyer’s heroics have not only eliminated the five-time champions Mumbai Indians but also given PBKS another shot at IPL glory.

Match Highlights at a Glance:

• Shreyas Iyer: 87* off 47 balls (9 fours, 4 sixes)
• Nehal Wadhera: 48 off 39 balls
• Josh Inglis: Impactful cameo against Bumrah
• PBKS Bowling: Key wickets in middle and death overs; smart use of slower balls
• Mumbai Indians: Suryakumar Yadav (44), Tilak Varma (44), Naman Dhir (37 off 18 in the death overs)
• Result: PBKS won by 5 wickets, chased down 204

Stay tuned for the latest IPL 2025 news, highlights, and expert analysis as Punjab Kings look to claim their first-ever IPL title!