In a thrilling start to the IPL 2025 season, Punjab Kings’ skipper Shreyas Iyer showcased an electrifying performance, narrowly missing out on a century during their campaign opener against Gujarat Titans on Wednesday. Needing just three runs to reach his hundred, Iyer finished unbeaten at 97 off just 42 balls. Despite the near miss, Iyer displayed an unruffled demeanor and confidently reassured fans, stating, “I will get it (century) in the next match.”
The match was marked by a spectacular late onslaught from Punjab Kings, with Iyer and Shashank Singh putting on a blazing partnership. Singh, who remained not out at 44 off just 16 deliveries, including smashing five fours in the last over bowled by Mohammed Siraj, ensured that Punjab Kings posted a formidable total of 243/5. Gujarat Titans mounted a valiant chase, coming within 11 runs of Punjab’s total, ending at 232/5, but were ultimately outgunned by the Kings’ explosive batting.
Reflecting on their partnership, which contributed a staggering 81 runs in the last 4.4 overs, Iyer emphasized the strategic decision to aim for a big total. “The interaction we had in the middle was to post a massive total on the board because we knew Gujarat Titans have a solid batting lineup and in IPL it’s not over until it’s over,” Iyer explained in a video posted by IPL. He encouraged Singh to focus on big shots, disregarding Iyer’s personal milestone. “I just asked him to go for big shots, don’t look at my hundred, I will get it in the next match.”
Iyer also took a moment to mentor the young opener Priyansh Arya, who lit up the stadium with a quick-fire 47 off 23 balls. Offering advice, Iyer shared, “I asked Priyansh not to go ahead of the game and to control his shape as much as he could.” This guidance is a testament to Iyer’s leadership and foresight, aiming to nurture the next generation of cricket stars.
Further praising Shashank Singh, Iyer credited him for clinching the match for Punjab. “I got motivated by watching your batting last year which gave me solid confidence, to be honest. Also, the way you came in and smashed the ball from the third ball…It’s those 44 runs which you made that created a lot of impact and I hope you continue with your form,” Iyer complimented Singh, acknowledging his crucial role in securing the narrow victory.