IPL 2025 Final: Can PBKS’s Uncapped Stars Finish the Job?

After 11 long years, Punjab Kings have finally made it back to the IPL final—and this time, it’s not their big names leading the charge but a fearless band of uncapped players rewriting the franchise’s fortunes. As PBKS gear up to face the red-hot Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, all eyes are on Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Nehal Wadhera, and Shashank Singh—the unlikely heroes of this turnaround.

For a franchise often labelled inconsistent and underwhelming, Punjab’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. Led by the composed Shreyas Iyer, they’ve defied expectations to march into the final, powered by a group of hungry, uncapped cricketers who have thrived under pressure.

Priyansh Arya’s Breakout Season

Among them, Priyansh Arya has arguably made the biggest splash. The left-hander, a newcomer to the IPL, has lit up the season with 451 runs at a strike rate of 183.33—second only to Glenn Maxwell (2014) in franchise history for batters with 450+ runs. His explosive ton against Chennai Super Kings was a statement of intent and showcased his fearless brand of cricket.

Prabhsimran Finally Arrives

For Prabhsimran Singh, 2025 has been a breakout year after seasons of inconsistency. The 24-year-old has smashed 523 runs at a strike rate of 163.43, forming a dangerous opening duo with Priyansh. Their 489-run partnership this season has provided Punjab with blistering starts, laying the groundwork for their success. A score of 94 or more in the final will see Prabhsimran break Shaun Marsh’s long-standing record for most runs by an uncapped PBKS batter in a season.

Middle Order Muscle

The top order has dazzled, but it’s the middle order that’s held the innings together. Nehal Wadhera, with 354 runs at a strike rate of 150.63, has been crucial in stabilizing the team during pressure moments. His composed 48 in Qualifier 2 helped PBKS chase down 205 after an early wobble.

Shashank Singh, meanwhile, has emerged as a surprise package. Though he faltered in the playoff matches, his season average of 41.28 (second-best in the team after Shreyas Iyer) reflects his consistency and ability to finish games.

A Final Test Awaits

Having already won both their matches in Ahmedabad this season, including a five-wicket win over Mumbai Indians, Punjab head into the final with momentum and belief. For a team long overshadowed in the IPL narrative, this could be their defining moment—led not by stars, but by India’s next generation.

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