June-1, 2025: In the blink of an eye since their last face-off in the league stage, Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have found themselves on dramatically different trajectories. PBKS, riding high then, now finds itself on the back foot after a heavy eight-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1. In contrast, MI’s spirit soared as they crushed Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator, thanks to a commanding all-round performance.
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As the two sides meet again in Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, MI seems to hold the upper hand. Rohit Sharma’s resurgence with a classic 81-run knock, peppered with vintage strokeplay (and a few lucky let-offs), was the catalyst for MI’s imposing total in their last match.
Jonny Bairstow’s explosive 22-ball 47 has also solved the puzzle of MI’s second opener spot, vacated by Ryan Rickelton. Add to that the potent middle-order threats of Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya and Naman Dhir, and MI’s batting depth looks daunting. If the PBKS bowlers falter even slightly, expect a total north of 200 — a benchmark that has been breached in all but one of the seven games at this venue this season.
On the bowling front, MI boasts a not-so-secret weapon: Jasprit Bumrah. The ace pacer’s ability to turn matches on their head was on full display with a searing yorker to dismiss Washington Sundar last match. His control and class could again prove decisive.
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PBKS, meanwhile, must regroup quickly after their meltdown against RCB. Bowled out for a mere 101, their batters will need to rediscover their aggressive instincts. Captain Shreyas Iyer must set the tone, leading a lineup that still boasts significant firepower in Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. Clearing the mind and playing with intent will be crucial.
An enthralling run-fest is on the cards, and while MI looks favourites, the beauty of the IPL is that nothing is predictable. Will MI’s winning culture propel them to yet another final? Or will PBKS script a redemption tale to remember?
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Qualifier 2 IPL 2025, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, IPL 2025 Playoffs, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Jonny Bairstow, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, PBKS vs MI, IPL 2025, cricket news, IPL playoffs, Gujarat Titans Eliminator, IPL Ahmedabad, IPL final spot
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