- May 25, 2025
Just when it seemed as if Punjab Kings would finish in the top two of IPL 2025, there was another twist for Punjab Kings. It was a high-scoring encounter in their “home away from home” at Jaipur, where PBKS scored 206/8, while a resolute DC came back to end up chasing them down in the last over. Punjab’s defeat echoed beyond the scoreboard, denting both their points tally and net run rate armor. But don’t go into panic mode just yet! The route to a top two finish has not closed yet, but it will be a bit tougher! Let’s look at how they may be able to do it.
What Went Wrong: The Bowling Slip-Up That Cost PBKS
Let’s be honest—207 obviously should have been enough on that Jaipur pitch. It had variable bounce and not much pace, therefore, Punjab were in a good position to defend. But, as captain Shreyas Iyer indicated, the bowlers were over-eager. The plan was to bowl hard lengths; what occurred was a barrage of bouncers and wayward deliveries that DC took advantage of and dispatched to all corners.
Karun Nair and Sameer Rizvi, who scored his first IPL fifty, were able to take PBKS to task for their lack of discipline. Too many free runs, not enough control. This match showed that PBKS is too reliant on aggressive bowling but doesn’t have the backing of control, which they need to fix before the crunch match with MI.
The Math Behind the Mayhem: How PBKS Can Still Finish in the Top Two
So, here’s the situation. That’s good. The other side of that, the not-so-great? Their net run rate (NRR) was down to 0.26 from 0.39, and this could be a concern if it comes down to that.
Here’s what needs to happen:
When May 26 arrives, PBKS will need every ounce of fire to outfight the Mumbai Indians. There can be zero ifs, ands, or buts about it; this needs to happen. The win will guarantee PBKS 2 points and, potentially, they can try to increase their NRR back to where it was right after that victory against the Royal Challengers.
Gujarat Titans need to lose to Chennai Super Kings. f GT trips up, PBKS could dance past them, powered by a favorable net run rate.
RCB must lose at least 1 more match. This keeps the Royal Challengers from taking a last-minute leapfrog position.
PBKS need to take care of business on their end and pray that the cricket gods don’t smile on their closest rivals. They may not be entirely in control, but they still have a proper grip on the wheel.
It’s Not Over Until It’s Over: Why PBKS Fans Should Still Believe
Yes, Saturday’s game was a missed chance. But PBKS have proved this season that they’re not the usual “hot and cold” Kings as in previous years. Shreyas Iyer has been leading them with calm authority, their batting fires more often than not, and the bowling, even with the DC hiccup, has indicated match-winners.
There is the X-factor too: the Jaipur pitch. It has been unpredictable, not a flat belter. If it can be unpredictable for the opponent too, that is good for PBKS, especially if they can again learn from their mistakes, particularly smarter approaches to directional bowling.
If Punjab can combine disciplined bowling with their destructive batting, they can still be in the conversation for a top-two finish. And momentum is key in the IPL.
For PBKS fans, it’s time to believe. The IPL has thrown up some strange twists. Are you ready for some drama?
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