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The road to IPL 2025 finale tightens as Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in a thrilling Qualifier 2 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With a coveted place in the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) up for grabs, both teams will be banking on their match-winners to rise to the occasion. Set to begin at 7:30 pm IST on Sunday, June 1, this knockout game promises fierce duels and tactical fireworks.
Among the many on-field battles, fans will have their eyes on some iconic face-offs that could shape the outcome of the match. Let’s take a look at three key contests that could be game-defining in this high-voltage encounter.
PBKS vs MI: 3 battles to watch out for
1. Yuzvendra Chahal vs Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav has been the heartbeat of Mumbai Indians’ batting this season, amassing 673 runs in just 15 innings at a staggering average of 67.30. Known for his 360-degree strokeplay and calm presence at the crease, SKY has lit up IPL 2025 with a mix of classical elegance and fearless innovation.
However, when it comes to facing Punjab Kings’ seasoned spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, the Mumbai star has looked slightly subdued. Across 12 encounters, Chahal has managed to keep Suryakumar in check, conceding only 83 runs and dismissing him three times. The most telling stat is SKY’s strike rate—just 116.90 against Chahal—far below his overall IPL strike rate of 153.25. Chahal’s subtle variations and clever trajectory could once again test Suryakumar’s patience and shot selection under pressure.
Head-to-head (IPL):
Innings: 12 | Runs: 83 | Wickets: 3 | Batting Strike Rate: 116.90 | Fours: 7 | Sixes: 3
2. Jasprit Bumrah vs Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis has emerged as a vital cog in Punjab Kings’ middle-order engine, often shifting gears effortlessly with his power-hitting abilities. With a career T20 strike rate of 138.11, Stoinis is known to take on pacers with authority. But Jasprit Bumrah has been a completely different beast.
Bumrah, one of the most feared death-overs specialists in world cricket, has consistently outfoxed the Australian powerhouse. In their seven previous matchups, Bumrah has removed Stoinis three times while conceding only 28 runs, with the batter managing a paltry strike rate of 77.77. Bumrah’s lethal yorkers and deceptive slower deliveries could once again strangle Stoinis during the death overs.
Head-to-head (IPL):
Innings: 7 | Runs: 28 | Wickets: 3 | Batting Strike Rate: 77.77 | Fours: 2 | Six: 1
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3. Shreyas Iyer vs Trent Boult
Shreyas Iyer, leading PBKS with poise this season, has delivered crucial performances under pressure. The elegant right-hander has shown great command over left-arm pacers, and his record against Trent Boult strengthens that claim.
Although Boult has been swinging the new ball with purpose for MI, he’s found it tough to unsettle Iyer. In their seven prior IPL meetings, Boult has dismissed Iyer only once while conceding 56 runs, with Iyer striking at a healthy rate of 127.27. The battle between Boult’s swing and Iyer’s wristy counterattacks will be intriguing, especially during the powerplay phase.
Head-to-head (IPL):
Innings: 7 | Runs: 56 | Wickets: 1 | Batting Strike Rate: 127.27 | Fours: 7 | Sixes: 2
Also READ: IPL 2025 prize money: Here’s how much amount Orange Cap and Purple Cap winners will get
