Jonny-Bairstow. (Photo source: X/Star Sports)
The Mumbai Indians (MI) got off to a strong start in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 as opener showed his intent early with a commanding six. The five-time champions are taking on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad in what is a do-or-die clash of the IPL 2025. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bowl first, pointing that the pitch was covered last night and it would suit the bowlers.
Nonetheless, coming out to bat, Bairstow made the most of a freebie delivery from Kyle Jamieson in the second over of the innings. It was a short-of-length ball which drifted down the leg side, and it was a kind of delivery which a batter loves, falling right in his arc. The wicketkeeper-batter executed a pick-up shot, and launched the ball into the Ahmedabad stands for the first maximum of the evening. The English international, who was roped in to feature for the side only in the Playoffs, impressed everyone in the Eliminator against Gujarat Titans (GT) and looked to carry the same momentum to Motera.
PBKS brought in Yuzvendra Chahal into the Playing XI in place of Musheer Khan. Meanwhile, MI brought in left-arm bowler Reece Topley for Richard Gleeson, who was ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained in the Eliminator clash.
This knockout encounter holds immense importance for both franchises. MI are aiming for their sixth IPL trophy and will focus on winning the match to enter the final. PBKS, meanwhile, are looking for their maiden IPL title, and notably, they have also reached the playoffs after 11 long seasons.
The winner of this clash will play the grand finale on Tuesday, June 3, at the same venue against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who, moved to the finals after defeating PBKS in the Qualifier 1 in New Chandigarh.
