Can PBKS Turn Their Fortunes Around in IPL 2025?

Synopsis
As IPL 2025 heats up, the Punjab Kings cling to playoff hopes. Sunil Gavaskar emphasizes Shreyas Iyer's crucial role in leading the team through challenges. With a few matches left, can they turn their luck around and secure a spot in the playoffs? Tune in to discover the potential comeback of PBKS.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab Kings are in the race for the IPL 2025 playoffs.
- Shreyas Iyer's leadership is pivotal for their success.
- They have faced several matches interrupted by rain.
- Remaining matches include crucial games against Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals.
- Fans are hopeful for a turnaround in their luck.
Mumbai, May 16 (NationPress) As the Punjab Kings strive to secure a playoff position, renowned Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that Shreyas Iyer will be pivotal in their quest as IPL 2025 resumes this Saturday.
Currently, PBKS holds the third spot with 15 points from 11 matches, trailing behind Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who are both at the top with 16 points, the Titans leading based on net run rate.
Discussing the significance of Shreyas Iyer's leadership in maintaining the Punjab Kings' playoff aspirations, Gavaskar remarked, “This highlights the critical nature of captaincy. The coach is present and does contribute during strategic time-outs, but ultimately, it’s the captain who must make split-second decisions. Credit goes to Shreyas Iyer for his leadership last year, guiding the team through challenging times.”
“He successfully navigated them out of difficult scenarios to achieve victories, and I see him executing a similar strategy now. They've faced some unfortunate luck; for instance, their promising start in Dharamshala was cut short when the game was abandoned,” Sunil Gavaskar told IANS during the Star Sports Press Room show on Friday.
“They had an impressive 124-1 in 10 overs, an outstanding start. Additionally, at Eden Gardens, they managed to score around 206 or 207 – typically a winning score – but rain disrupted the match. So, yes, they’ve dealt with a streak of unfavorable luck. They are hopeful for a turnaround,” he added.
As IPL 2025 resumes, Punjab Kings have three matches left. They will kick off their return on Sunday against Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Following this, PBKS will face Delhi Capitals in a rematch of the game that was cut short after 10.1 overs in Dharamsala on May 8. They will conclude their campaign against Mumbai Indians, another match that was shifted from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad, scheduled in Jaipur on May 26.