Shreyas Iyer's decisive over seals Punjab Kings' IPL 2025 final spot over Mumbai Indians

Punjab Kings secured their IPL 2025 final spot with a thrilling victory over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 at Ahmedabad on June 1. Chasing a challenging target of 204 runs, PBKS sealed the win with an over to spare and five wickets in hand, marking the highest successful run chase in IPL playoff history.

The match was defined by Shreyas Iyer's decisive over against Reece Topley, which shifted momentum in Punjab's favor. Iyer's captaincy and batting prowess were pivotal in navigating the pressure-packed chase.

"Shreyas took control of that over. That was a big over for us because that shifted the momentum," a team source said.

Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, struggled to keep pace and were penalized for slow over-rate. Pandya was fined Rs 30 lakh, and the entire MI squad faced fines for their third over-rate offense this season.

"We didn't put up our best performance," admitted MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene, reflecting on the campaign that started poorly but showed promise with six consecutive wins after Jasprit Bumrah's return.

The loss ended Mumbai Indians' hopes of reaching the IPL 2025 final, while Punjab Kings advanced to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who had already secured their final berth by winning Qualifier 1.

The match also drew attention off the field, with Reliance Group's Nita Ambani visibly emotional at the Narendra Modi Stadium, as fans and netizens reacted to Mumbai's exit.

Punjab Kings will now prepare to challenge RCB in the IPL 2025 final, aiming to capitalize on their historic playoff chase and strong team form.

Shreyas Iyer's crucial over helped Punjab Kings chase 204 runs with an over to spare, defeating Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 to secure a final spot. Mumbai captain Hardik Pandya was fined for slow over-rate, while Punjab set the highest IPL playoff chase record.