Punjab Kings (PBKS) will take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 18 of IPL 2025 on Saturday, April 5, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur.
Match Overview
Punjab Kings are coming into this game with a strong start to the season, having won both of their opening matches. They will be looking to maintain their momentum as they play their first home game at Mullanpur. With a balanced squad and strong performances so far, PBKS will look to make the most of their home advantage.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have had a rough start, sitting ninth on the points table. However, they did manage to secure a victory over Chennai Super Kings in their last game. With Sanju Samson returning as captain after recovering from a finger injury, RR will hope to turn their fortunes around and climb up the points table.
PBKS vs RR Match Details
| Match | Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, Match 18, IPL 2025 |
|---|---|
| Venue | Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur |
| Date & Time | Saturday, April 5, 2025, 7:30 PM (IST) |
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Mullanpur has produced high-scoring encounters due to its short dimensions, which allow batters to play their shots freely. However, spinners have also found some assistance due to the pitch’s conditions. The pitch is expected to offer a good balance between bat and ball, but the short boundaries will likely favor the batters. It will be interesting to see how the spinners adapt and if they can capitalize on the conditions as the game progresses.
Given the ground’s dimensions and the surface’s tendency to favor aggressive stroke play, we can expect a run-fest with both teams looking to set big totals or chase down a challenging target.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | Punjab Kings (PBKS) | Rajasthan Royals (RR) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Matches | 28 | 28 |
| PBKS Wins | 12 | 12 |
| RR Wins | 16 | 16 |
| No Result | 00 | 00 |
PBKS vs RR Predicted Playing 11
Punjab Kings (PBKS):
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Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Suryansh Shedge, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh
Rajasthan Royals (RR):
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Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c), Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande
Key Players to Watch
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Shreyas Iyer (PBKS): The captain of Punjab Kings will be crucial in leading the side. With an aggressive approach and excellent leadership skills, Iyer will need to perform with both the bat and in guiding the team. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed will be important.
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Sanju Samson (RR): As the returning captain of Rajasthan Royals, Samson’s leadership will be pivotal in RR’s quest for a comeback. He is also in great form with the bat, and his consistency at the top will be key for RR in setting up big totals.
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Wanindu Hasaranga (RR): The Sri Lankan leg-spinner has been in great touch and will be looking to exploit the conditions at Mullanpur. His wicket-taking ability in the middle overs will be crucial for RR to control PBKS’s power hitters.
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Lockie Ferguson (PBKS): With his pace and ability to bowl at the death, Ferguson will be crucial in restricting RR’s powerful batting lineup. His pace will be essential, especially when it comes to defending against big hitters.
Today’s Match Prediction:
While both teams have a lot to offer, Punjab Kings have been in better form and will have the advantage of playing at home. Their strong batting lineup, combined with some good pace and spin bowling, makes them a formidable side. Rajasthan Royals will need to step up and find consistency, especially with their batting and leadership. However, PBKS‘ home advantage and their recent form could see them edge out RR in a close contest.
Prediction: Punjab Kings (PBKS) to win the match, especially with their strong all-round game and home advantage. If RR can fire in the middle overs, they might pose a challenge, but PBKS seems the stronger team heading into this match.
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