Ricky Ponting umpire exchange during Rainy Delay in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2

Emotions Run High as Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians Await Match Outcome

The highly anticipated IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians took an unexpected turn when a surprise spell of rain interrupted the start of the match in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The weather, which had shown minimal threat earlier, suddenly turned grey, and the rain arrived just moments before the first ball could be bowled. The players, who had lined up to take the field, were forced to scurry for cover as the ground staff rushed to bring on the covers.

Concerns Over Pitch and Weather Conditions

As the rain eased to a drizzle and then subsided entirely within half an hour, Punjab Kings players took to the field in numbers to assess the changed conditions. Arshdeep Singh was quick to start his warm-up drills, rolling his arm over to get a feel of the pitch. However, head coach Ricky Ponting was seen stepping out for a serious exchange with the umpires, appearing visibly concerned about the state of the pitch and the weather’s unpredictability. The tension in his body language was palpable as he discussed the conditions with the officials.

[Image: Ricky Ponting (R) and Yuzvendra Chahal talk to umpires during the rain delay (JioHotstar)]

Yuzvendra Chahal, the side’s spinner who made a return for the Qualifier 2 after missing the last few games due to an injury, was also in discussions with the umpire. The two were seen engaged in an intense conversation, no doubt discussing the implications of the rain delay on the match.

Relief Short-Lived as Rain Returns

However, the players’ relief didn’t last long. Soon after, rain returned, forcing the ground staff to roll back the main cover and forcing the players back to the dressing room. The frustration was evident on the faces of the players and the coaching staff as they watched the rain disrupt the proceedings once again.

What’s at Stake?

If the rain persists and forces a washout, Punjab Kings will reach the final because they finished higher than Mumbai Indians on the points table. The PBKS finished at the top of the league table, while MI was fourth. Hardik Pandya’s men defeated Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator match to set up a clash against Punjab in Ahmedabad.

Previous Encounters

Punjab, meanwhile, faced a shocking 8-wicket thumping at their home ground in Qualifier 1 to RCB. They were bowled out for just 101 in 14.1 overs, with RCB cruising to the target, thanks to an explosive half-century by opener Phil Salt. The loss was a setback for the team, and they will be eager to make amends in the Qualifier 2.

The Road to the Final

The winner of the Qualifier 2 will face RCB in the season final on Tuesday (June 3) in Ahmedabad. The fans will be hoping for rain to stay away for the all-important title clash. The stage is set for a thrilling finale, and the teams will be giving it their all to emerge victorious.

As the rain continues to play havoc with the match schedule, the tension builds up among the players, coaches, and fans. Will Punjab Kings be able to overcome the challenges and make it to the final, or will Mumbai Indians spoil their party? Only time will tell.

Stay tuned for updates on the match and follow us for more cricket news and analysis.

Related News:

• IPL 2025: Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians Qualifier 2 Preview
• IPL 2025: RCB vs Punjab Kings Qualifier 1 Highlights

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Content originally published by www.hindustantimes.com