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The Indian Premier League 2025 is reaching its climax, and the stakes have never been higher. In the 54th match of the tournament, Punjab Kings (PBKS) will take on Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a crucial clash that could define playoff qualification for both teams.
Punjab Kings are coming off a thrilling win against Chennai Super Kings, showing strong batting performances and improved consistency. With Shreyas Iyer leading from the front and an explosive middle order, they look ready to push hard for a playoff spot.
Lucknow Super Giants, however, are struggling for form and consistency. After losing their last three games out of four, including a heavy defeat against Mumbai Indians, Rishabh Pant’s side needs a win desperately to keep their playoff hopes alive.
This high-pressure encounter at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala promises fireworks with both teams looking to secure vital points. Let’s dive into the details.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | PBKS vs LSG – IPL 2025, Match No. 54 |
| Date & Time | April 7, 2025 |
| Venue | HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala |
| Toss Time | Expected around 7:00 PM IST |
| Weather Forecast | Clear skies, good visibility |
| Pitch Report | Batting-friendly track; early swing for pacers |
| Live Streaming | Disney+ Hotstar / JioCinema |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
Team Previews
Punjab Kings Preview
Shreyas Iyer has brought stability and confidence back to Punjab Kings this season. The team is playing fearless cricket, especially with the bat, and looks more balanced than ever before. Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have formed a formidable opening pair, giving the innings a flying start regularly.
In the middle order, Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh have stepped up when needed, while Josh Inglis adds aggression lower down the order. Suryansh Shedge and Marco Jansen provide depth and finishing ability. Iyer himself has led by example with several impactful knocks, including a match-winning 72* against CSK in their last game.
On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh continues to be the spearhead, delivering crucial breakthroughs with his yorkers and variations. Yuzvendra Chahal has returned to form and picked up 4 wickets in the previous game. Marco Jansen offers pace and bounce, while Azmatullah Omarzai and Harpreet Brar handle the middle overs.
With momentum on their side and a well-rounded squad, Punjab Kings are entering this must-win clash with belief.
Lucknow Super Giants Preview
Lucknow Super Giants have hit a rough patch in IPL 2025. Despite having a star-studded lineup, the team has struggled with consistency and direction. Their recent loss to Mumbai Indians exposed weaknesses in both batting and bowling departments.
Rishabh Pant, the skipper, has not found form with the bat, which has affected the team’s morale. Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh need to fire at the top to set the tone, but they’ve failed to do so consistently. Nicholas Pooran remains the most reliable batter in the middle order, but he can’t carry the burden alone.
Ayush Badoni has shown promise but hasn’t delivered enough under pressure. David Miller, the impact player, is expected to finish games, but the lack of partnerships has left him with too much to do.
In bowling, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav offer some threat upfront, but their inconsistency is a concern. Ravi Bishnoi remains the key spinner, though he hasn’t received enough support from other bowlers. Avesh Khan and Digvesh Singh Rathi haven’t made a big impact either.
With the playoffs slipping away, LSG must deliver a complete performance to stay relevant in the tournament.
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reason for Favouritism |
|---|---|
| Punjab Kings (PBKS) | Stronger batting line-up, better current form, and consistent bowling make PBKS clear favorites. LSG are struggling mentally and technically, especially in crunch matches. |
Fantasy Team XI (IPL 2025 – PBKS vs LSG)
| Player Name | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Prabhsimran Singh | PBKS | Batsman |
| Aiden Markram | LSG | Batsman |
| Shreyas Iyer | PBKS | Batsman |
| Nicholas Pooran | LSG | Batsman |
| Shashank Singh | PBKS | Batsman |
| Ravi Bishnoi | LSG | All-rounder |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | PBKS | Bowler |
| Arshdeep Singh | PBKS | Bowler |
| Mayank Yadav | LSG | Bowler |
| Marco Jansen | PBKS | All-rounder |
| Josh Inglis | PBKS | Wicketkeeper-Batsman |
Explanation:
This fantasy team focuses on players in form and those likely to play decisive roles. Prabhsimran Singh and Shreyas Iyer are scoring heavily for PBKS. Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran are key for LSG. Shashank Singh and Marco Jansen add firepower. Josh Inglis gives wicketkeeping value and batting strength. Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal are proven wicket-takers. Mayank Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi provide bowling balance.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
| Player | Role | Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Shreyas Iyer | Batsman | Captain |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler | Vice-Captain |
Why?
- Shreyas Iyer is in excellent form and plays a central role in PBKS’ batting.
- Arshdeep Singh is a match-winner with the ball and often delivers under pressure.
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
| Player | Reason |
|---|---|
| Rishabh Pant | Struggling with form and inconsistent leadership. |
| David Miller | Hasn’t had enough impact recently despite experience. |
Squads Overview
Punjab Kings Squad (Full List):
- Shreyas Iyer (c)
- Prabhsimran Singh
- Priyansh Arya
- Nehal Wadhera
- Shashank Singh
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Suryansh Shedge
- Marco Jansen
- Harpreet Brar
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Arshdeep Singh
- Jitesh Sharma
- Liam Livingstone
- Atharva Taide
Lucknow Super Giants Squad (Full List):
- Rishabh Pant (c & wk)
- Aiden Markram
- Mitchell Marsh
- Nicholas Pooran
- Ayush Badoni
- Abdul Samad
- David Miller (Impact Player)
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Avesh Khan
- Mayank Yadav
- Prince Yadav
- Digvesh Singh Rathi
- Krunal Pandya
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Romario Shepherd
Probable Playing XI
| Punjab Kings | Lucknow Super Giants |
|---|---|
| Shreyas Iyer (c) | Rishabh Pant (c & wk) |
| Prabhsimran Singh | Aiden Markram |
| Priyansh Arya | Mitchell Marsh |
| Josh Inglis (wk) | Nicholas Pooran |
| Nehal Wadhera | Ayush Badoni |
| Shashank Singh | Abdul Samad |
| Harpreet Brar | Digvesh Singh Rathi |
| Marco Jansen | Ravi Bishnoi |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Avesh Khan |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | Prince Yadav |
| Arshdeep Singh | Mayank Yadav |
Pitch Report
The HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala offers a great batting surface with true bounce and carry. The pitch assists pace movement early due to the stadium’s altitude, making it challenging for openers. However, once the powerplay is through, batsmen can score freely.
Spinners don’t get much turn, so they rely on accuracy and variations. Chasing has been difficult here due to dew affecting grip later in the evening. Teams batting first have won five out of the last six matches here.
Expected First Innings Score: 165–185
Preferred Option: Batting first
Toss Prediction
Given the pitch favors the batters early and becomes slightly tricky during the chase due to dew, the captain winning the toss is likely to:
- Bat first to post a competitive total and put pressure on the opposition.
Winner Prediction
| Team | Prediction Reason |
|---|---|
| Punjab Kings | Better form, stronger batting, and more consistent bowling. LSG are under pressure and have lacked focus in recent games. PBKS should come out on top. |
Final Verdict:
This is a must-win game for both teams, but Punjab Kings enter with more confidence and momentum. Their batting unit is firing, and their bowling has shown signs of improvement. Lucknow Super Giants need a miracle turnaround to avoid elimination.
PREDICTED WINNER: Punjab Kings
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