The stage is set for an electrifying clash in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 as the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) lock horns with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 1, 2025. This high-stakes encounter promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting journeys to the playoffs. Mumbai Indians, under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, have shown remarkable resilience, turning their season around from a sluggish start to storm into the playoffs with a commanding 20-run victory over Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator.
On the other hand, Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, have been a force to reckon with throughout the league stage, topping the points table, but suffered an eight-wicket setback in Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). With a spot in the final on the line, both teams will leave no stone unturned to secure victory.
As the sun sets over the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The pitch, known for its high-scoring nature, sets the stage for a batting extravaganza. Mumbai Indians, with their star-studded lineup including the likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah, will look to capitalize on their experience in knockout games.
Punjab Kings, despite their recent loss, boast a formidable batting order with players like Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, and Marcus Stoinis, who can turn the game on its head. The bowling departments of both teams will be crucial, with Bumrah’s prowess for Mumbai and Arshdeep Singh’s variations for Punjab being key factors. This match is not just about skill and strategy; it’s about heart, determination, and the will to win.
Pitch and Weather Report
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is renowned for its batting-friendly pitches. The surfaces here have consistently produced high-scoring games, with the average first-innings score ranging between 180-200. The pitch is expected to be flat, offering little assistance to bowlers, particularly in the powerplay and death overs. Spinners might find some turn in the middle overs, but overall, it’s a paradise for batsmen. Weather-wise, Ahmedabad in early June is typically hot and dry, with temperatures hovering around 35-40°C. There is no forecast of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted 40 overs of cricket.
Head-to-Head Records
In their previous encounter this season, Punjab Kings got the better of Mumbai Indians, winning by 7 wickets, despite Jasprit Bumrah’s efforts. However, Mumbai Indians have a superior record in IPL knockouts, having clinched the title five times, which gives them an edge in high-pressure situations. Overall, in IPL history, Mumbai Indians lead the head-to-head tally against Punjab Kings, with 17 wins out of 31 matches, while Punjab Kings have secured 14 victories.
| Matches Played | 33 |
| Won by Punjab Kings | 14 |
| Won by Mumbai Indians | 17 |
| No Result | 01 |
| First-ever Fixture | April 25, 2008 |
| Most-recent Fixture | May 26, 2025 |
Predicted Playing XIs
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis (WK), Shreyas Iyer (C), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh
Impact Player: Vijaykumar Vyshak
Mumbai Indians (MI): Jonny Bairstow (WK), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Raj Bawa, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Richard Gleeson
Impact Player: Ashwani Kumar
Match Winning Prediction
Mumbai Indians appear to be slight favorites heading into this match, given their recent form, experience in knockout games, and comprehensive performance in the Eliminator. Their batting lineup, with multiple players in top form, and their bowling, led by the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah, have been clinical.
Punjab Kings, despite their strong season, might be reeling from their Qualifier 1 loss to RCB, and their bowling depth could be a concern, particularly with the absence of key players like Yuzvendra Chahal and Marco Jansen. However, cricket is inherently unpredictable, and PBKS’s explosive batting lineup, featuring Bairstow, Singh, and Stoinis, has the potential to turn the game in their favor if they fire in unison. If PBKS’s bowlers, particularly Arshdeep Singh , execute his plans effectively, they could upset MI. Nevertheless, based on current form and historical success in knockouts, the evidence leans toward Mumbai Indians edging out Punjab Kings to secure a spot in the IPL 2025 final.
- If Punjab Kings win the toss and bowl: They are predicted to restrict Mumbai Indians to 190-200, with MI scoring 60-70 in the powerplay. Punjab Kings are favored to win the match.
- If Mumbai Indians win the toss and bowl: They are predicted to restrict Punjab Kings to 200-210, with PBKS scoring 65-75 in the powerplay. Mumbai Indians are favored to win the match.
Also Read: MI vs PBKS : Shikhar Dhawan Picks The Winner Between Upcoming MI & PBKS Encounter