In a season that has often defied expectations and captivated millions, the Punjab Kings have finally broken their long-standing jinx, powering their way to a coveted top-two finish in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. This monumental achievement, secured with a resounding seven-wicket victory over the formidable Mumbai Indians on Monday, May 26, 2025, in Jaipur, was significantly illuminated by the scintillating performance of Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, whose explosive knock of 73 runs from just 42 deliveries quite literally lit the way for his franchise.
For over a decade, the Punjab Kings franchise, formerly Kings XI Punjab, has often found itself relegated to the middle or lower echelons of the IPL points table, frequently flattering to deceive before falling short of playoff contention. Their last top-two finish dates back to the 2014 season, a distant memory for many ardent supporters. This year, under the astute leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer and the strategic guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, the team has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending aggressive intent with newfound consistency. The collective belief, a recurring theme reiterated by players like Shashank Singh, who spoke of “manifesting and then working hard,” has clearly translated into tangible results on the field.
The decisive encounter against Mumbai Indians was a microcosm of Punjab Kings’ season – a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and the emergence of match-winners. Chasing a competitive target of 185, Punjab’s innings initially saw an early setback with the departure of Prabhsimran Singh. However, it was the partnership that followed, a breath taking 109-run stand for the second wicket between the young Indian sensation Priyansh Arya and the overseas dynamo Josh Inglis, that truly swung the momentum in Punjab’s favour.
Inglis, in his debut full season with the Punjab Kings, has quickly established himself as a vital cog in the team’s batting machinery. His style of play, characterized by a fearless approach and an ability to dismantle bowling attacks from the outset, has provided the impetus that Punjab’s top order has often craved. Against Mumbai, he showcased his full repertoire, smashing nine boundaries and three towering sixes. Whether it was driving elegantly through the covers, lofting over mid-wicket, or executing clever reverse sweeps, Inglis exhibited a complete mastery of the T20 batting craft. His partnership with the left-handed Priyansh Arya, who himself contributed a fluent 62 runs, was a study in complementary batting, as the duo exploited the short boundaries and put immense pressure on Mumbai’s celebrated bowling unit, including the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult.
The importance of Inglis’s knock cannot be overstated. He not only anchored the chase but accelerated at crucial junctures, particularly in the middle overs when the run rate could have threatened to spiral. His aggressive approach against spinners like Mitchell Santner ensured that Punjab never fell behind the required rate. Even after Arya’s dismissal in the 15th over, Inglis continued his assault, taking the team to the brink of victory before eventually falling for his first IPL fifty. However, the damage was already done, and captain Shreyas Iyer, a record-breaking acquisition himself, calmly sealed the win with a six, triggering ecstatic celebrations in the dugout and among the Punjab faithful.
This top-two finish carries immense strategic weight in the IPL playoffs. It grants the Punjab Kings two crucial opportunities to reach the grand final on June 3 in Ahmedabad. As the table-toppers (with 19 points from 14 matches, narrowly ahead of Gujarat Titans), they will participate in Qualifier 1 on May 29 in Mullanpur. The winner of this match progresses directly to the final, while the losing team receives a second chance, playing the winner of the Eliminator (contested between the third and fourth-placed teams) in Qualifier 2 on June 1. This safety net is the ultimate reward for consistency and perseverance throughout the rigorous league stage.
The journey to this point has been fraught with challenges. The Punjab Kings began their campaign with a blend of promising starts and frustrating collapses, a pattern that has often plagued them. However, under Ponting’s unwavering belief and Iyer’s dynamic leadership, the team found its rhythm in the latter half of the tournament. Key contributions from other players, including the ever-consistent performances of their bowling attack led by Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen, and the spirited finishing acts from players like Shashank Singh, have all been integral to their success. The team’s ability to bounce back from defeats, such as their recent loss to Delhi Capitals, and deliver under pressure speaks volumes about their newfound mental fortitude.
For the passionate supporters in Punjab, who have endured years of near misses and unfulfilled potential, this season has been a breath of fresh air. The scenes of co-owner Preity Zinta celebrating each victory, her joy palpable on social media, reflect the emotional investment that runs deep within the franchise. The prospect of finally lifting the coveted IPL trophy, a dream nurtured for over a decade, now feels closer than ever. The Mullanpur Cricket Stadium, Punjab’s home ground, will be buzzing with anticipation as it hosts the Qualifier 1, a fitting reward for the team’s stellar league stage performance.
As the IPL 2025 moves into its most critical phase, the Punjab Kings stand as a testament to strategic recruitment, effective leadership, and the power of individual brilliance. Josh Inglis’s consistent performances, epitomized by his match-winning knock against Mumbai, have not only earned him accolades but have genuinely “lit the way” for his team. The path to the IPL final is still challenging, with formidable opponents like Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Mumbai Indians vying for the same prize. However, with momentum on their side, a renewed sense of belief, and the vital advantage of a top-two finish, the Punjab Kings are poised to make their deepest run yet in the tournament’s history. The state of Punjab watches with bated breath, hopeful that this might finally be their year.