Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured a spot in the top two of the IPL points table for the first time in 11 years with a dominant seven-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Chasing a target of 185, PBKS were guided by half-centuries from Priyansh Arya and Josh Inglis, who steadied the innings and led their team to a comfortable victory.

PBKS have made it to Qualifier 1, while MI will play Eliminator. Sunil Gavaskar praised PBKS after the win.

“Nobody took Punjab Kings seriously, but they made smart choices at the auction, picking a lot of young, uncapped Indian players. They’ve observed them, seen their performances, and where they’ve played. While there are many state leagues, you can’t always rely on those, as the bowling attacks may not always be strong,”Gavaskar said.

“Even then, when someone like Priyansh Arya hits seven sixes, it’s clear he has talent. They’ve also done a great job with their international player selections. Full credit to them. I’m really happy for them. I told you before the match started that a new name would be written on the trophy, and here we are,” he added

Priyansh Arya showed remarkable composure, while Josh Inglis played a key innings as Punjab Kings defeated Mumbai Indians by seven wickets, earning a spot in Qualifier 1 of the IPL.

Pursuing a target of 185, Punjab Kings had a sluggish powerplay, but Inglis (73 off 42 balls) and Arya (62 off 35) put together a vital 109-run stand off 59 balls, steering their team to victory in 18.3 overs. Captain Shreyas Iyer (26 not out off 16) finished the game with a six off Trent Boult.

Punjab’s bowlers restricted Mumbai to 184/7 after opting to bowl first, at a venue known for high-scoring games.

Punjab Kings will now travel to Mullanpur for Qualifier 1 on May 29. The Eliminator will be played at the same venue the next day.