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For Punjab Kings (PBKS), the Indian Premier League has often been a tale of promise and heartbreak. Despite being one of the original franchises since 2008, PBKS have struggled to convert strong league performances into playoff glory. As they gear up for another shot at the title in IPL 2025—securing their first playoff spot in 11 years and a coveted top-two finish—their playoff history serves as a reminder of how elusive success has been for the franchise.
Punjab Kings and a history of playoff heartbreak
The near miss of the first IPL edition
Punjab Kings’ journey in the IPL playoffs began with optimism in 2008. Then known as Kings XI Punjab, the team finished second in the league stage, raising hopes of a maiden title run. However, their campaign ended abruptly in the semi-final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where a batting collapse saw them post just 112/8—a total CSK chased down with ease, knocking Punjab out by nine wickets.
The glorious campaign of 2014
It would take another six years for PBKS to return to the playoffs, but the 2014 season remains their most memorable—and painful. Led by George Bailey, Punjab dominated the league stage, topping the table with explosive performances from the likes of Virender Sehwag and David Miller. After a setback in Qualifier 1 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), PBKS bounced back with a record-breaking 226/6 against CSK in Qualifier 2, powered by Sehwag’s blistering 122. The final saw Wriddhiman Saha’s heroic 115* set a target of 200, but KKR chased it down in a tense finish, leaving Punjab as runners-up and still searching for their first IPL trophy.
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PBKS’ decade of waiting and the weight of missed opportunities
Since that 2014 heartbreak, PBKS have endured a long playoff drought, often finishing mid-table despite boasting star-studded squads. The 2025 season marks only their third playoff appearance in 18 years—a statistic that underscores their struggles in the league’s business end. Their overall playoff record is modest: four matches played, just one win, and three losses. Their only victory came in 2014’s Qualifier 2 against CSK, while their other outings have ended in disappointment.
This checkered history has fostered a sense of unfinished business within the team. Head coach Ricky Ponting’s recent comments—“achieved nothing yet”—reflect both the hunger and the burden of past failures. The likes of Saha, Sehwag, and Vohra have produced individual brilliance in playoffs, but collective success has remained out of reach. As PBKS prepare for another high-stakes encounter, their playoff record serves as both motivation and a cautionary tale.
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