Preity Zinta's 2014 Old Team Bus Photo Goes Viral as Punjab Kings Return to IPL

It has been eleven long years since Punjab Kings reached the IPL Qualifier 1 and the whole internet is brimming with excitement. A very special old photo taken in 2014 of Bollywood actress-turned-team co-owner Preity Zinta on the team bus has become viral once again. The image is nostalgic for most of the fans since it reminds them of days gone by and illustrates how far the team has traveled. In the image Preity is posing with some of the retired players such as Gurkeerat Singh Parvinder Awana David Miller and team physio Patrick Farhart. This photo was initially shared by the Punjab Kings on April 20 2024 but it now has a completely different meaning due to the team's new success.

On May 26 2025 Punjab Kings did something huge. They beat Mumbai Indians and qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2014. This victory was a clear indication that the team has become stronger. Punjab Kings pursued the target of 185 runs confidently. Josh Inglis and Priyansh Arya provided a solid start with a partnership of 109 runs. Inglis scored a good knock of 73 runs and Arya scored 62 runs. These two young opening batsmen made things simple for the team. They ensured Punjab Kings have won the match in only 18.3 overs. Captain Shreyas Iyer did not get out with 26 runs off 16 balls and assisted in completing the game without issues.

The emotional moment became even more endearing when Preity Zinta was spotted celebrating on the field. She embraced captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting. These actions indicated how much she is concerned with the team. She also greeted warmly Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma and team owner Akash Ambani. This was a reflection of the cheerful and polite atmosphere of the IPL. Zinta's celebratory response made the crowd even more enthusiastic. She has never lost her fondness for the team and such moments remind all of how much she is attached to the players and the franchise.

Shreyas Iyer has been at the center of the success of the team this season. He was acquired for ₹26.75 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. Most fans and commentators had great expectations from him and he met all those expectations. His captaincy is intelligent and his decisions reflect that he always prioritizes the team. In one of the early matches Iyer was close to making a century but rather than going after personal achievement he instructed his teammate Shashank Singh to continue attacking. That action revealed what sort of captain he is. He desires the team to win more than personal records. Preity Zinta even complimented him for it stating that he displayed class and real leadership.

The resurgence of Punjab Kings to the top of the IPL has infused new hope. The hard work and team spirit of the team are being observed and realized by everyone. Fans are once again thrilled and optimistic that this could be the year their side wins the trophy. The team is optimistic and the dressing room comes across as being upbeat and full of confidence. With Shreyas Iyer as leader and Preity Zinta's regular support the side appears more cohesive than ever.

The 2014 viral image has become synonymous with this journey. It illustrates how time goes by but memories and hopes remain intact. That one instance on the team bus now becomes a reminder of where Punjab Kings were and how they've battled their way back. The grin on Preity Zinta's face in the previous photograph is the same as the joy she flashed with the team following the recent victory. For fans this connection between the past and present makes the story even more powerful.

This season feels like a turning point for Punjab Kings. After waiting for more than a decade they have finally made it to the qualifier. Every fan who supported them through the tough years is now celebrating. The players have shown great energy and teamwork. Their recent match against Mumbai Indians was just one example of how the team has improved. From powerful batting performances to smart captaincy every part of the team is working well. This strong form gives fans a real reason to believe that a title win could finally be possible.

With Preity Zinta supporting them and the entire team giving their hundred percent Punjab Kings are now nearer than ever to making history. The ride has not been simple but this season is a testament to the fact that patience and believing can yield results. As they enter the playoffs fans are standing with them with complete support. The throwback picture will still keep people reminded of how far they have traveled. And now the team seems set to pen a new page with hope strength and perhaps even a trophy.

In cricket one such story makes hearts warm. Preity Zinta's happiness the struggle of the team and the team spirit all combine to make this IPL season etched in the minds of Punjab Kings forever.