Hardik Pandya was left dejected after his Punjab Kings (PBKS) counterpart Shreyas Iyer hit the winning runs to knock Mumbai Indians (MI) out of the IPL 2025 with a five-wicket win in Qualifier 2 at Ahmedabad.
Chasing 204 in a high-pressure contest, Shreyas stood firm with a commanding 87 not out off 41 balls (5 fours, 8 sixes), anchoring the innings and finishing the match with an over to spare. He was ably supported by Nehal Wadhera (48 off 29) and Josh Inglis (38 off 21).
Once MI posted a 200-plus total, PBKS needed someone to bat with control and authority. Iyer stepped up and delivered a knock that combined calculated aggression with clarity under pressure.
After the game, Hardik credited his opposite number for the way in which he handled the chase.
“The way Shreyas batted, took his chances and some of the shots he played were really outstanding. I think they definitely batted really well,” the MI captain said.
Asked if he thought 203 was enough, Hardik stuck by his batting unit while also adding that the execution wasn’t up to the mark with the ball.
“I think it was par, but it needed some great execution as a bowling unit which I think in these big games it really matters. And as I mentioned they were really calm, put us under pressure and I think we were not able to execute the way we wanted,” Hardik stated.
“I will not put it on the wicket. If we had to do something better it was maybe someone bowling right lengths or maybe the right bowler at the right point, the result could have been a bit different,” he explained.
Jasprit Bumrah’s last over was saved until the 18th when PBKS needed only 31 off 18. Pandya was asked if Bumrah (0-40 in 4 overs) could have bowled even earlier to try and dismiss the rampaging Iyer.
To which, he replied, “In hindsight, it would have been different (whether he should have bowled Bumrah with 41 needed of 4 overs) and it would have been too early as well, Boom knowing the situation if even 18 balls are left Jassi can be Jassi and he can do something special and it just didn't happen today.”
With this victory, Punjab Kings reached their first IPL final since 2014 and will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
