Punjab Kings (PBKS) have qualified for the playoffs of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the first time in 11 years. They had last qualified for the playoffs in IPL 2014 and were the losing finalists in that edition.
Under the astute captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings have managed to script history and qualify for the playoffs. After their 7-wicket victory against Mumbai Indians (MI) on 26th May 2025, Punjab Kings cemented their place in the top two and now will be playing Qualifier 1.
What is the added advantage for Punjab Kings?
Since Punjab Kings have made a top 2 finish, they will now get two opportunities to play the IPL 2025 final. They will first be competing in Qualifier 1 on 29th May 2025 and then will be playing the Qualifier 2 on 1st June 2025 – only if they lose Qualifier 1.
This is an added advantage for Shreyas Iyer and co. and they will be looking to capitalise on this and advance to the finals.
The Shreyas Iyer effect
Shreyas Iyer, no doubt, is one of the most successful captains of the Indian Premier League. He is the first captain to take 3 different IPL teams to the playoffs – first Delhi Capitals (DC), then Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and finally Punjab Kings.
Iyer has led by example- he has accumulated 514 runs in IPL 2025 so far and is the leading run-scorer of Punjab Kings. His presence in the top-order has bolstered the batting department of Punjab Kings.
Captaincy does play a huge role in a team and Shreyas Iyer is a living testament to that. He always had a great working relationship with former Australian legendary batter, Ricky Ponting, and has combined well to raise the stocks of Punjab Kings.
Can Punjab Kings cross the barrier?
The aggressive brand of cricket which Punjab has been playing has made heads turn in the IPL. Punjab Kings are a well-balanced side with both their batting and bowling departments, performing exceedingly well.
Be it the openers in the form of Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya or spinners in the form of Harpreet Brar and Yuzvendra Chahal – PBKS has performed and clicked as a team unit and will be looking to further dominate proceedings in the playoffs of IPL 2025.
