PBKS vs MI Qualifier 2 Prediction: Who Will Advance to the IPL 2025 Final?

With the IPL 2025 final within reach, all eyes turn to Ahmedabad on June 1, where Mumbai Indians (MI) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. While Mumbai are riding high after a gritty Eliminator win, Punjab will be aiming to bounce back after a forgettable Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings: Experience Meets Aspiration

Mumbai Indians enter the high-stakes contest with a storied history in knockout cricket. The five-time champions are known for peaking at the right time, often saving their best performances for the playoffs. Their resume speaks volumes — 14 wins in 21 playoff matches, translating to a 66.7% win rate. They’ve shown remarkable consistency and composure under pressure over the past 17 seasons.

In contrast, Punjab Kings are still carving out their legacy. Despite reaching the playoffs only five times, PBKS have managed just one playoff win, giving them a modest 20% win rate in knockout matches. But 2025 feels different — Punjab's campaign has been charged with renewed purpose and their squad appears more balanced and fearless than in previous years.

Playoff Performance Comparison:

• Mumbai Indians: 21 matches | 14 wins | Win rate – 66.7%

• Punjab Kings: 5 matches | 1 win | Win rate – 20%

PBKS vs MI Head-to-Head: A Balanced Rivalry with a Recent Twist

In terms of head-to-head stats, the contest remains closely contested. Out of 33 encounters, MI have won 17, while PBKS are just behind with 16 victories. Their rivalry has often delivered nail-biters, and the stakes are even higher this time with a place in the final at risk.

Notably, PBKS defeated Mumbai Indians in their earlier meeting during IPL 2025, which gives the Kings a significant morale boost. That victory is proof that Punjab can hold their own against cricket’s heavyweights — especially when it matters most.

Head-to-Head Record:

• Matches: 33

• MI Wins: 17

• PBKS Wins: 16

Ahmedabad Advantage: Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Favors Punjab

The venue could play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of Qualifier 2. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has been far kinder to Punjab than it has been to Mumbai. PBKS have played 6 matches at the venue, winning 4, including key victories that shaped their playoff run. MI, on the other hand, have a poor track record here — with just 1 win in 6 matches, including a painful Qualifier 2 defeat last season.

Record at Narendra Modi Stadium:

• PBKS: 6 matches | 4 wins | Win rate – 66.6%

• MI: 6 matches | 1 win | Win rate – 16.6%

This gives Punjab Kings a psychological edge, having adapted well to the pitch and atmospheric conditions in Ahmedabad. The surface is known for supporting spinners and favoring teams that handle pressure in the middle overs — areas where PBKS have quietly excelled this season.

Match Prediction: Will Mumbai’s Legacy Prevail or Will Punjab Make History?

Qualifier 2 promises a compelling clash between experience and ambition. Mumbai Indians, with a lineup of battle-hardened match-winners and a history of peaking during playoffs, will bank on their legacy. Names like Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav bring invaluable playoff experience.

But Punjab Kings shouldn’t be underestimated. They’re driven, confident after their earlier win over MI, and have a core group of players thriving in current conditions. If they can hold their nerve, Punjab could very well break new ground and reach their first IPL final since 2014.

Final Prediction:

While MI’s pedigree makes them favourites on paper, Punjab’s form, familiarity with the venue, and recent head-to-head win suggest they are well-positioned to cause an upset. Expect a closely fought match, but don’t be surprised if PBKS script history in Ahmedabad.