Sports Desk
25 March
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist & Research Analysist
In a high-scoring thriller, Punjab Kings defeated Gujarat Titans by 11 runs in today’s IPL match. Skipper Shreyas Iyer played a brilliant unbeaten knock of 97 runs off just 42 balls, leading Punjab to a massive total of 243/5. Despite a strong chase, Gujarat Titans fell short, managing 232/5 in their 20 overs.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Punjab Kings got off to a steady start. The highlight of the innings was skipper Shreyas Iyer, who announced his arrival in style with a breathtaking knock of 97* runs. His innings included nine sixes and five fours, but unfortunately, he couldn’t complete his century as he didn’t get the strike in the final over.
Shashank Singh provided the finishing touch with a blistering 44 off just 16 balls. He smashed six fours and two sixes, scoring 23 runs in a single over bowled by Mohammed Siraj.
Other notable contributions included Priyansh Arya, who played a quickfire 47 off 23 balls, Marcus Stoinis with 20 off 15, and Azmatullah Omarzai, who added 16 off 15 balls. For Gujarat Titans, Sai Kishore was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets, while Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada picked up one wicket each.
Chasing a huge target of 244, Gujarat Titans put up a valiant effort but fell short by 11 runs. Sai Sudharsan was the top scorer for Gujarat, playing a well-crafted innings of 74 runs. He received good support from Jos Buttler, who made 54, while Sherfane Rutherford played a quick 47-run knock. Captain Shubman Gill contributed 33 runs but couldn’t take his team across the finish line.
Punjab Kings’ bowlers held their nerve in the final overs. Arshdeep Singh was the most successful bowler with two wickets, while Glenn Maxwell and Marco Jansen chipped in with one wicket each.
This match marked Shreyas Iyer’s first game as Punjab Kings’ captain, and he led from the front with a match-winning knock. His innings ensured Punjab started their campaign with a crucial victory.
The IPL 2025 season has already delivered thrilling contests, and this match was no exception. Punjab Kings’ batting power and Gujarat Titans’ fighting spirit made for an exciting game. With this win, Punjab will look to build momentum, while Gujarat will aim to bounce back in their next match.