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Shreyas Iyer led Punjab Kings to their first IPL final in over a decade, demonstrating what it means to be a captain under pressure just days after being passed over for India's upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Punjab defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by 5 wickets in Qualifier 2 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, advancing them to the IPL 2025 final against the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Iyer took the lead with an undefeated 78 off 53 balls, guiding Punjab's tense 172-run chase with poise and determination. In a high-stakes knockout match, his innings, which featured nine clean boundaries and a soaring six, was a masterclass in pace.
The spotlight was firmly on Iyer after the BCCI selection committee opted not to include him in India's red-ball plans. For a batter who once captained India in Tests and ODIs and was seen as a key middle-order option, the exclusion came as a shock to many.
"I was disappointed, no doubt," Iyer said after the match. "But rather than dwelling on it, I chose to focus on this opportunity. Leading Punjab means a lot to me, and tonight was about doing my job when the team needed it most."
Earlier, Punjab Kings' bowlers laid the foundation for victory. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh gave his team a dream start by removing Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma inside the first three overs. Sunrisers Hyderabad was reduced to 49/4 during the powerplay by Kagiso Rabada's pace and bounce.
Heinrich Klaasen, however, put up a valiant 61 off 38 balls, helped along by Abdul Samad, to propel Hyderabad to a respectable 171/8.
During the chase, Sam Curran, Punjab's appointed vice-captain, helped keep the needed rate from getting out of hand by taking two wickets and contributing a scorching 28 off 18 balls.
Since taking over as captain ahead of the 2025 season, Iyer has brought much-needed stability to a team long plagued by inconsistency and tactical missteps.
If Punjab wins the IPL trophy in Ahmedabad, Iyer's comeback story could come to a happy ending. After injuries, setbacks for the national team, and concerns about his form, his personal redemption has gained attention from both fans and analysts.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra posted on X (formerly Twitter):
"Snubbed from Tests, but into the IPL final with a captain's knock. That's how you respond. Take a bow, Shreyas Iyer."
All eyes will be on Iyer once more as Punjab Kings prepare to play the Kolkata Knight Riders in the championship match. This time, they will be watching him not only as a batter but also as a leader who has the potential to make history.
