In a heartfelt show of support and encouragement, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament Raghav Chadha visited the Punjab Kings (PBKS) squad on May 28, 2025, ahead of their much-anticipated Qualifier 1 clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The meeting, held at the state-of-the-art Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, was marked by camaraderie, celebration, and a spirit of unity between political leadership and sporting excellence.
During his visit, Raghav Chadha warmly interacted with key members of the PBKS squad, including captain Shreyas Iyer, head coach and Australian cricket icon Ricky Ponting, and the spirited team co-owner, actress Preity Zinta. He lauded the team’s exceptional performance in IPL 2025, where they topped the league table with a commanding and consistent run throughout the season.
As a symbolic tribute to their contributions to Punjab cricket, Raghav Chadha presented special commemorative caps to Ricky Ponting and Preity Zinta on behalf of the Punjab Cricket Association. Embodying the pride and spirit of Punjab, the caps honored their inspiring leadership and unwavering commitment that have elevated PBKS this season.
Taking to social media, Raghav Chadha shared glimpses from his visit and expressed admiration for the team’s unity, resilience, and flair. In his post, Raghav Chadha wrote:
“Had the pleasure of meeting the spirited Punjab Kings squad and congratulating them on their phenomenal performance this season. Punjab takes pride in their determination, discipline, and resilience. Heartfelt thanks to team owner @realpreityzinta, skipper Shreyas Iyer, and coach Ricky Ponting for their inspiring leadership. Wishing the team all the best for the big match tomorrow!”
The visit comes at a pivotal moment for PBKS, who under the fresh leadership of Iyer and Ponting, have undergone a stunning transformation. The team has demonstrated consistency, depth, and aggression throughout the IPL 2025 campaign, culminating in a decisive win over the five-time champions Mumbai Indians in their final league fixture. This victory not only secured their top-table finish but also guaranteed them two shots at a place in the final, starting with the Qualifier 1.
Qualifier 1 promises to be a high-octane encounter as PBKS prepares to face Royal Challengers Bangalore, who themselves booked the second spot with a crucial win over Lucknow Super Giants on May 27. The head-to-head record between the two sides this season adds to the intrigue—PBKS emerged victorious at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium earlier in the tournament, while RCB exacted revenge at Mullanpur in the return leg.
As fans gear up for what is poised to be one of the most thrilling matches of the IPL 2025 season on May 30, the morale boost provided by Raghav Chadha’s visit and his heartfelt endorsement of the squad’s journey may prove invaluable. His message echoes the sentiments of countless fans across Punjab who have rallied behind their team in what has been a campaign filled with belief and ambition.
With unity in the dressing room and support pouring in from all corners, the Punjab Kings will be hoping to script history and take a giant step toward their maiden IPL title.