The IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium began after a rain delay, with Punjab Kings making an immediate impact. Arshdeep Singh delivered a brilliant first over, conceding just four runs. The Mumbai openers, Rohit Sharma and Jonny Bairstow, struggled against the moving ball, as Arshdeep’s precision set the tone for a disciplined start.
With such a tight beginning, it seemed logical for Punjab to persist with Arshdeep in hopes of an early breakthrough. However, in a surprising move, skipper Shreyas Iyer handed the ball to Marcus Stoinis in the third over. The decision raised eyebrows, especially after Stoinis started with a wayward half-volley that Rohit drove confidently down the ground.
Stoinis, however, quickly adjusted his line and length. On his very next delivery, he pulled the ball back slightly. Rohit attempted to flick it over square leg but failed to connect cleanly. The mishit resulted in a straightforward catch at the boundary, bringing a huge early wicket for Punjab Kings.
The dismissal of Rohit Sharma was a major moment in the game. Stoinis, visibly fired up, celebrated with a chest-thump as his gamble paid off in style. Shreyas Iyer’s decision, initially questioned by many, proved to be a tactical masterstroke, and the team’s energy reflected that early success.
— Birdman (@kingbirdman22) June 1, 2025
Fans and cricket pundits took to Twitter, praising Iyer for his bold and effective decision-making. The captain’s call to bring in Stoinis early, despite the risk, not only disrupted Mumbai’s rhythm but also gave Punjab a significant edge in a high-pressure match.