IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma Autographs Jonny Bairstow's Helmet After Mumbai Indians' Heartbreaking Loss To Punjab Kings; Video

In a heartwarming moment that captured the spirit of camaraderie in cricket, stalwart Rohit Sharma was seen signing teammate Jonny Bairstow's helmet following their team's five-wicket loss to Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2. The gesture, which occurred in the early hours of June 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, resonated with fans and players alike, highlighting the deep bonds formed within the team.

Despite the disappointment of the defeat, Sharma's act of signing Bairstow's helmet stood out as a testament to mutual respect and admiration between teammates. Bairstow, who joined Mumbai Indians as a replacement for Will Jacks ahead of the playoffs, made significant contributions in the knockout stages, including a brisk 47 off 22 balls in the Eliminator against Gujarat Titans.

It was only two games, but we fell in love with the Rohit-Bairstow opening show 😍#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/MU59aHsXRj

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) June 2, 2025

The match itself was a thrilling encounter, with Punjab Kings chasing down a formidable target of 204, thanks to a captain's knock of 87* by Shreyas Iyer. Despite early setbacks, including the dismissal of Rohit Sharma for 8 runs, Mumbai Indians posted a competitive total of 203-6. However, Punjab's resilient batting lineup ensured their progression to the final.

Sharma's autograph on Bairstow's helmet serves as a poignant reminder of the sportsmanship and unity that define cricket, transcending individual performances and match outcomes.

PBKS Vs MI, IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Punjab Kings Outgun Mumbai Indians In Ahmedabad Thriller, Set Up Title Clash With RCB

Punjab Kings delivered a commanding performance to defeat Mumbai Indians by 5 wickets in a high-octane IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Chasing a target of 204, skipper Shreyas Iyer led from the front with a blazing 87 off 41 balls, powering PBKS into the IPL 2025 Final where they will meet Royal Challengers Bengaluru on June 3.

Mumbai Indians posted a competitive 203/6 in their 20 overs. Suryakumar Yadav played a fluent knock of 44 off 26 deliveries, striking 4 boundaries and 3 sixes, while Tilak Varma added stability with an identical 44 off 29 balls. Despite MI’s strong middle-order push, Punjab’s bowling unit kept things in check during key phases. Azmatullah Omarzai stood out, picking 2 wickets for 43 runs in his 4-over spell.

In reply, PBKS got off to a solid start before captain Shreyas Iyer unleashed a breathtaking display of power-hitting. His 87-run innings came off just 41 balls, featuring 5 fours and 8 towering sixes, sending the Ahmedabad crowd into a frenzy. He received superb support from Nehal Wadhera, who chipped in with a vital 48 off 29 balls. Punjab wrapped up the chase in just 19 overs, finishing at 207/5, comfortably overcoming the pressure of a high-stakes knockout match. Mumbai’s bowling attack failed to contain Punjab’s batters during the middle and death overs. Ashwani Kumar was the most successful bowler for MI with figures of 2/55 in 4 overs, but the rest of the attack struggled for breakthroughs when it mattered most.