Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer showcased his class in their IPL 2025 opener against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday, smashing a blistering 97 not out off 42 balls. His aggressive innings helped Punjab post a daunting total of 243 for five.
Iyer’s standout moment came in the 14th over when he took on Gujarat’s ace spinner Rashid Khan, hitting back-to-back sixes to reach his half-century in just 27 balls. The first six came off a googly outside off, which Iyer sent soaring over long-on. Rashid followed with a short delivery on the middle stump, but Iyer pulled it flat over deep mid-wicket, finishing the over in style.
Punjab Kings secured Iyer for ₹26.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, making him the second-costliest player in IPL history, just behind Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant, who fetched ₹27 crore.
The 30-year-old batter, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title last year, reunited with head coach Ricky Ponting at Punjab. The duo previously guided Delhi Capitals to two playoff appearances and are now aiming to bring Punjab its maiden IPL title.
While Iyer’s heroics anchored Punjab’s innings, he was denied a chance at a well-deserved century in the final over. Partner Shashank Singh took charge, smashing Mohammed Siraj for 23 runs in the last six balls. Iyer could only watch from the non-striker’s end as Punjab finished on a high.
Rashid Khan, known for controlling the middle overs, struggled against Punjab’s aggressive batting. The Afghan spinner took one wicket and gave away 48 runs in his four overs.
Iyer’s explosive knock included nine sixes and five fours, with a remarkable strike rate of 230.95. Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 44 off 16 balls added the finishing touch to Punjab’s innings.
Gujarat Titans now face a tough chase of 244 as Punjab Kings aim to start their campaign with a win.
