Built to win: What makes Punjab Kings worthy of the Indian Premier League gold

Punjab Kings (PBKS) will clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the highly anticipated final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Tuesday night at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. After an emphatic victory over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 on Sunday, PBKS have advanced to the final for the first time in 11 years.

Their captain, Shreyas Iyer, has been at the forefront of this resurgent campaign, drawing widespread praise for his leadership and match-winning performances.

Speaking to the media ahead of the final, Iyer reflected on the team's journey this season and shared insights into the mindset that propelled them to the title decider.

"The role of a captain is to bring out the best in every player. We built momentum right from the start of the season. Once we got that initial push, everyone kept stepping up,” Iyer said.

PBKS finished the league phase with consistent performances, and under Iyer’s captaincy, they maintained composure through high-pressure situations. He credited the entire squad, especially the young players, for rising to the occasion.

“We have many youngsters who’ve been fearless from ball one. Their intent and maturity throughout the tournament have been exceptional. That’s been a key reason behind our success this year,” he noted.

A significant influence behind PBKS’s turnaround has been head coach Ricky Ponting. Iyer, who previously worked with Ponting during their stint at Delhi Capitals, spoke highly of the Australian legend's man-management skills.

“Ponting is an amazing coach. He treats everyone equally — whether junior or senior — and that gives every player a boost. His ability to stay composed regardless of the result shows his class as a leader,” Iyer said.

The Ponting-Iyer duo had guided Delhi Capitals to their maiden IPL final in 2020. Now, reunited at PBKS, they’ve once again forged a successful alliance, transforming the team into a strong title contender.

In the high-stakes Qualifier 2 against Mumbai Indians, PBKS were in early trouble, losing key wickets. Rising to the challenge, Iyer delivered one of the most impactful innings of the tournament — a match-winning 87 not out off just 41 balls.

Speaking about his approach, he said, “I try to play the situation rather than pre-plan too much. When you’re chasing, you have to assess the conditions, the bowlers, and the required rate. I try to take it ball by ball and ensure I’m there till the end.”

His calmness under pressure proved decisive, guiding PBKS to a memorable victory. However, Iyer didn’t celebrate much after the win.

“I felt my job was only half done. We have the final coming up, and I was already thinking about recovery and preparation. That’s the mindset I wanted to maintain,” he explained.

Punjab’s final opponents, RCB, had defeated them in the first Qualifier, giving Iyer and his team valuable lessons in adaptability. Iyer stressed the importance of flexibility in strategy.

“You can’t stick to one plan throughout. You have to play according to the situation. The team has matured. The youngsters are fearless, but also wise now. They understand how to adapt,” he said.

The captain emphasised the need for a dynamic approach as PBKS gear up to face a confident RCB side led by Rajat Patidar.

As PBKS prepare for what could be a historic night, Iyer reiterated his fierce competitive spirit and commitment to securing the trophy.

“When you’re on the field, it’s about rivalry, not comfort. You’re at war, and you fight to win. I’ll give everything I have to ensure my team lifts the trophy,” he concluded.

With form, momentum, and belief on their side, Punjab Kings will look to script a fairy-tale finish to their IPL 2025 campaign on Tuesday night in Ahmedabad.