3 key concerns that could cost Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 final

Shreyas Iyer on Sunday led from the front with a commanding unbeaten 87 as Punjab Kings outclassed Mumbai Indians by five wickets in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2. Chasing a daunting target of 204 in a rain-hit encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Punjab reached the finish line with six balls to spare.

Iyer’s explosive 41-ball innings, studded with five boundaries and eight towering sixes, sealed the deal, fittingly with a match-winning maximum. With the win, Punjab stormed into their second IPL final, setting up a high-stakes showdown against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, that guaranteed to crown a first-time champion. RCB booked their place in the final last week after edging out Punjab in the first qualifier.

Despite the win, the Punjab camp will be aware of several pressing issues that need urgent attention before Tuesday’s summit clash.

Bowling a bane

Punjab’s bowling attack, which has been operating without the services of Marco Jansen, was seen as vulnerable. However, the unit managed to step up under pressure, managing to contain Mumbai Indians` power-packed lineup for the majority of the innings. While Yuzvendra Chahal continues to battle a hand injury and hasn’t quite hit peak form, Punjab will count on the veteran spinner to rise to the occasion, especially with the final coming against his former franchise.

Over-reliance on Iyer

Much of Punjab’s success this season has revolved around Iyer, both as a captain and a batter. The franchise made a bold move by banking heavily on the former IPL-winning skipper, and he has delivered under pressure. With Punjab’s top order struggling for rhythm, Iyer’s consistency becomes even more vital. His leadership on the field is matched by his outstanding numbers in playoff games: 303 runs in 11 innings at an average of 50.50 and a strike rate of 142.92, including three half-centuries. His unbeaten 87 against MI was not just timely but symbolic of Punjab’s reliance on his experience and composure. 

Batting depth a worry

While Iyer has anchored the batting, concerns persist over Punjab’s overall lineup. Openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have failed to provide strong starts in recent games, placing additional pressure on the middle order, forcing the all-rounders to shoulder greater responsibility. The lack of depth due to a pace-heavy auction strategy has left the side slightly imbalanced, with an over-reliance on multi-role players to plug gaps.

This article first appeared on Mid Day