Punjab Kings sent a powerful statement in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a commanding win over Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, April 1, at the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Lucknow. Punjab’s dominant performance, led by a disciplined bowling effort from Arshdeep Singh and a clinical chase, helped them comfortably reach the target of 172 in 16.2 overs, securing back-to-back victories.
Shreyas Iyer's Leadership Shines Again
Shreyas Iyer, the Punjab Kings captain, continued his outstanding form, notching up back-to-back fifties in the tournament. His 54 not out off 30 balls played a key role in the victory. Iyer’s tactical brilliance was on full display as he guided his team confidently through the chase. Reflecting on the performance, Iyer said, “This is the start we required. The boys actually played their roles well, they contributed to the best of their ability, and whatever we planned, they executed it to the fullest.” His leadership has set a strong tone for the team, with Punjab Kings now sitting comfortably in the top four of the IPL 2025 points table.
Prabhsimran Singh Steers Punjab in the Chase
In a thrilling chase, Prabhsimran Singh emerged as the star performer for Punjab Kings. After a disappointing start in the season opener, Singh played a blistering knock of 69 off 34 balls, which included three sixes. His partnership with Iyer was instrumental in Punjab’s success, adding 84 runs off 42 balls for the second wicket. Despite Priyansh Arya being dismissed early, the pair took control, with Prabhsimran taking the lead while Iyer played the supporting role.
Though Prabhsimran looked set to reach a century, he was dismissed by Digvesh Rathi after a brilliant catch by Ravi Bishnoi and Ayush Badoni in the 11th over. But Punjab’s momentum didn’t slow down as Nehal Wadhera, who was brought in as a replacement for Glenn Maxwell, played a vital cameo of 43 off 25 balls, including four sixes. The pair of Iyer and Wadhera remained unbeaten, adding 67 runs in an unbroken partnership as Punjab Kings sealed the win with 22 balls to spare.
Arshdeep Singh and Lockie Ferguson Deliver Early Breakthroughs
Earlier in the day, Arshdeep Singh and Lockie Ferguson put the brakes on Lucknow’s batting. Singh struck early, dismissing Mitchell Marsh with a clever slower ball in the first over, while Ferguson’s debut for the franchise was marked by the key dismissal of Aiden Markram in the powerplay. Rishabh Pant, Lucknow's captain, continued his poor form and was dismissed for just two runs off five deliveries, leaving Lucknow reeling at 35 for 3.
Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni Provide Resistance
Despite the early collapse, Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni fought back with a 54-run partnership, stabilizing the innings. Pooran, typically a fluent player, was cautious and played according to the situation, though he eventually fell to Yuzvendra Chahal in the 12th over for 26 runs. Badoni continued his good form, scoring 41 runs off 33 balls, while Abdul Samad provided a late flurry, smashing 27 runs off 12 balls. However, Arshdeep Singh was not done yet and removed both Batters in the final over, finishing with a 3-wicket haul.
Despite the late surge, Lucknow could only manage 171 runs for the loss of seven wickets, a total that ultimately proved insufficient.
A Disappointing Day for Lucknow
For Lucknow Super Giants, it was a disappointing first outing at home. The team, led by Rishabh Pant, failed to capitalize on their previous win over SunRisers Hyderabad. After three matches, Lucknow has managed just one win, and their weaknesses were starkly exposed once again. The team will need to regroup and address their issues before their next match.
Looking Ahead
With the eight-wicket victory, Punjab Kings moved up in the standings, reinforcing their strong start to the season. They will face Rajasthan Royals in their first home game of the season on Saturday, April 5, in Mullanpur. The match promises to be an exciting encounter as Punjab Kings look to continue their momentum.
On the other hand, Lucknow Super Giants will need to reflect on their performance and find solutions ahead of their upcoming fixtures as they look to bounce back from a shaky start to the season.
