In a landmark moment for Punjab Kings (PBKS), the team not only booked a spot in the IPL 2025 playoffs but also confirmed a top-two finish for the first time in 11 years.
PBKS achieved a dominating seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Jaipur, which guaranteed a direct qualification for Qualifier 1. The win was driven by a match-winning 109-run stand between Josh Inglis (73 from 42 balls) and Priyansh Arya (62 from 35 balls), who recovered from a slow powerplay to chase down 185 with nine balls to spare.
Akash Ambani and Shreyas Iyer’s Viral Chat During the Match
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Akash Ambani and Shreyas Iyer… #PBKSvsMI pic.twitter.com/CzeKLGnioi
— Robin (@robinchopra10) May 26, 2025
Akash Ambani to Shreyas Iyer
Kuch le de ke kar sakte ho kya . 😂#PBKSvMI pic.twitter.com/45st09ctpi
— विंध्यवासी (@rahulpandit1i) May 26, 2025
Whereas the in-game action was enthralling, it was a viral off-field incident that ignited social media. While the 18th over of the first innings was underway, Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani was seen exchanging some words with PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer by the boundary line. The chance interaction between Ambani and Iyer caught the attention of the camera and fans alike instantly.
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It seems Shreyas Iyer wasn't convinced with the deal Ambani offered…! pic.twitter.com/4JW2OA9pBZ
— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) May 26, 2025
Shreyas Iyer was spotted leaning over the ad boards to communicate with Akash Ambani during the game, a feat seldom witnessed that brought forth a deluge of funny memes and jokes on platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. While what they were discussing is not known, the moment turned out to be one of the most discussed moments of the match.
Why the PBKS vs MI Match Was Crucial
While both sides had already reached the playoffs, this battle in Jaipur was a big one. The team that won would get a top-two position, which gives it a second opportunity to qualify for the IPL final. PBKS won, so they will feature in Qualifier 1 at their home venue in Mullanpur on May 29. MI, meanwhile, will play the Eliminator in Chandigarh on May 30.
Playoff Prospects and Upcoming Fixtures
The last league game between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday will decide the upcoming playoff fixtures. Interestingly, RCB are still in the fray, whereas LSG are out of contention.
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