PBKS vs MI | 11 May 2025 | Ahmedabad
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Date & Time: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 3:30 PM IST
The IPL spotlight turns to Ahmedabad as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with the Mumbai Indians (MI] in Match 61 of the 2025 season. Originally slated for Dharamshala, this crucial fixture has been shifted to the sprawling Narendra Modi Stadium, promising a venue able to house the electric energy these two franchises invariably bring.
Current Form & Standings
- Punjab Kings have endured an inconsistent campaign, amassing 4 wins in 11 matches for 8 points, leaving them just outside the playoff positions in 8th place. While Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and form with the bat have been bright spots, PBKS have struggled with death-over bowling and middle-order stability.
- Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, sit in 5th place with 6 wins from 11 games (12 points). Their powerhouse batting lineup—anchored by Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav—has clicked frequently, but MI have shown vulnerabilities against quality spin and in chasing under lights.
Venue & Conditions
The Narendra Modi Stadium offers a batting paradise with a large boundary radius but a lightning-quick outfield. Daytime temperatures in Ahmedabad average 35 °C in May, with humidity decreasing as the sun sets. Dew typically arrives late, which could aid the chasing side in the final overs. Captains will weigh the toss carefully: batting first allows teams to exploit the true surface before evening moisture sets in.
Key Battles to Watch
- Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) vs Jasprit Bumrah (MI)
Iyer’s timing and range of strokes will be tested by Bumrah’s pinpoint yorkers and slower balls, especially during the powerplay and death overs. - Liam Livingstone (PBKS) vs Piyush Chawla (MI)
Livingstone’s big-hitting could be neutralized by Chawla’s crafty leg-spin, which often thrives on Gujarat’s dry pitches. - Rohit Sharma (MI) vs Arshdeep Singh (PBKS)
The veteran opener’s elegant strokeplay will face a stern challenge from Arshdeep’s left-arm pace and deceptive slower deliveries.
Head-to-Head & Recent Encounters
In their last five IPL contests, MI have dominated PBKS with four victories, including a tense one at this very stadium last season. However, PBKS salvaged a morale-boosting win earlier this campaign, demonstrating they can upset the Mumbai juggernaut when in full flow.
What’s at Stake
- PBKS must win to revive their playoff hopes and climb into the top four during the final league phase.
- MI aim to secure a home playoff match by breaking into the top two, making every point critical as the season nears its climax.
Prediction
Mumbai’s superior batting depth and championship pedigree give them a slight edge. Yet, on a batting track and under the leadership of Iyer, Punjab possess the firepower to pull off a shock. Expect a high-scoring contest decided in the final powerplay.
