Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured their place in Qualifier 1 with a key win over Mumbai Indians (MI) at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Monday, May 26. Following the critical seven-wicket victory, PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta praised skipper Shreyas Iyer for leading the team from the front.

Preity Zinta was obviously overjoyed as PBKS advanced to the playoffs for the first time since 2014.

She stated that PBKS was fortunate to have an astute skipper and polished batter like Shreyas on its roster. The legendary Bollywood actress further stated that Shreyas’ partnership with head coach Ricky Ponting has worked wonders for the franchise.

“We are fortunate to have Shreyas Iyer. He has been an excellent captain and leader. And with Ricky Ponting as a coach, their combination has worked wonders for us,” Zinta told the media following PBKS’ sweeping victory.

When the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released the fixtures for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad was named as the venue for Qualifier 1. However, after a new schedule was issued lately, the crucial match was transferred to the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, which has hosted four of PBKS’ seven home games this season.

Zinta expressed her delight that the Punjab-based team would be able to play a crucial match like Qualifier 1 at Mullanpur, where many PBKS supporters are likely to attend.

“I’m super excited to play in Mullanpur. “Things have changed, but I’m not complaining,” said Zinta, who has appeared in nearly every PBKS game this season.

She also expressed her enjoyment of Punjab’s topsy-turvy campaign in the 18th season of the cash-rich league. Zinta also stated that they want to win the championship for the fans.

“We can overlook the ifs and buts. I’m just excited and taking each day as it comes. We want to win for our supporters. Our fanbase has always been supportive of us. They have been our steadfast supporters for many years. It will be for all Punjab Kings fans. Our team’s slogan is ‘bas jeetna hai,'” Zinta explained.

When asked about the things that didn’t go PBKS’ way, Zinta said, “The only thing I can say is that we have no control over what happens on the ground.” We can only select the appropriate team. You can always find talented players and a solid team. The captain, who leads the team, is setting an example. The captain and coach work together well. That is what alters the team dynamic.”