In a dazzling display of power hitting, Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) new captain Shreyas Iyer lit up Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium with a breathtaking knock of 97 not out off just 42 balls against Gujarat Titans (GT) in their IPL 2025 opener. His performance not only marked a triumphant debut for the franchise but also propelled PBKS to a staggering total of 243 runs for 5 wickets, the highest team score in IPL 2025 so far.
Shreyas Iyer’s masterclass against Gujarat Titans
Iyer’s innings was characterized by an aggressive approach, featuring nine sixes and five fours, which showcased his ability to dominate bowlers across the park. Coming in at No. 3 after the early dismissal of Prabhsimran Singh, Iyer quickly settled into his rhythm, scoring his fifty in just 27 balls. His partnership with debutant Priyansh Arya was particularly noteworthy; together they added 51 runs in just 21 balls before Arya fell for a brisk 47 off 23 deliveries.
Despite a brief dip in momentum after Arya’s exit, Iyer continued to anchor the innings with remarkable finesse. He formed another crucial partnership with Marcus Stoinis, adding 57 runs for the fifth wicket off merely 28 balls. As the innings progressed, Iyer’s explosive batting reached new heights, especially in the final overs where PBKS scored an impressive 87 runs in the last five overs alone.
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Enjoy glimpses of a Shreyas Iyer Special in Ahmedabad as he remained unbeaten on 97*(42) 👏
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Also WATCH: Punjab Kings’ Musheer Khan leaves Shreyas Iyer rolling on the floor laughing with his mimicry
Shashank Singh‘s cameo of 44 runs off just 16 balls further bolstered the team’s total, with his aggressive batting including four boundaries in the last over over from Siraj. This late onslaught left the Gujarat bowlers reeling and showcased the depth of talent within the PBKS lineup.
Chat between Shreyas Iyer and Shashank Singh
In the mid-innings break, Shashank revealed insights from the discussion with his skipper when he walked in to bat. “The way Shreyas was batting, looking from the dugout was superb. When I went in, Shreyas told me to go for it from ball one. Before the last over started, he said ‘Don’t look at my hundred.’ Just play your shots, I’m happy.”
