Shreyas Iyer led PBKS to IPL playoffs for the first time since 2014.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured their place in the top two of the IPL 2025 Playoffs after defeating Mumbai Indians (MI) by seven wickets on Monday (May 26). The qualification marks Punjab’s first playoff appearance since 2014.
During the post-match presentation, PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer highlighted his team's collective effort and winning mindset.
Iyer further stated it was important for him to gain the trust of the team, and he wants to maintain that relationship for the rest of the tournament.
"I personally feel everyone stepped up at the right time. We have been in that mindset that we have to win no matter what the situation. Kudos to everyone and the management. Ricky has been fantastic, and for me it was about gaining the trust of every individual," Iyer said in the post-match presentation.
"And that happened by winning matches, and I personally feel we need to maintain that relationship throughout. When you are down in the dumps, it is easy to backstab each other,” he added.
Chasing 185 to win, PBKS rode on half-centuries from Priyansh Arya (62 off35) and Josh Inglis (73 off 42) to get over the line with nine deliveries to spare.
Shreyas Iyer was effusive in praise of both Arya and Inglis as he highlighted the team’s fearless approach.
“(On Priyansh Arya) The way he started was fabulous. It was pleasing to the eye, and every individual has been fearless. They tick the boxes in the net sessions, and the reflection of it is seen on the ground,” Iyer said.
“(On Josh Inglis) He loves playing the new ball, and I wanted him to play more deliveries. And I know he can be disruptive, he is a big match player. Hope he continues the same way,” the captain remarked.
Shreyas Iyer shares a strong bond with Ricky Ponting from their time in the Delhi Capitals. Iyer revealed that Ponting lets him be decisive on the field at all times.
"We have a camaraderie from the last few years, he (Ponting) lets me be decisive on the field, all these things have culminated in a great way. Ecstatic that everything is working," Shreyas concluded.
After this win, PBKS will be at the top of the IPL 2025 points table and will play Qualifier 1, while MI will play Eliminator 1.
(With Cricbuzz Inputs)