During his commentary duties, former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar did not hold back his strong disapproval as the Punjab Kings’ batting lineup crumbled dramatically. He described their “shambolic display” as “unbelievable” and “suicidal,” highlighting how PBKS squandered a significant chance to directly qualify for the finals of IPL 2025.
Punjab’s strategy of aggressive batting from the very first ball, even after facing early setbacks, ultimately proved detrimental. Gavaskar was visibly displeased with the manner in which their batsmen surrendered their wickets to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru bowlers. The Punjab Kings were eventually bowled out for a meager total of 101 runs, with Marcus Stoinis’ 26 runs off 17 balls being the highest individual score.
“This is unbelievable. This is committing suicide, isn’t it?” Sunil Gavaskar exclaimed when Stoinis was dismissed by Suyash Sharma in the 11th over, a dismissal that significantly diminished Punjab’s hopes of posting a competitive total. PBKS’s overly aggressive approach backfired spectacularly on the day, as Bengaluru’s bowlers effectively dismantled the home team, bowling them out within the 15th over for a paltry 101 runs. Despite this setback, Punjab, who have reached the play-offs for the first time in over a decade, will have another opportunity to reach the final. They are set to compete in Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday, June 1st.
