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The 18th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will see Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Both teams enter this clash with contrasting form—PBKS have started strongly, winning both their opening matches, while RR have struggled for consistency, managing just one win in three games. With PBKS boasting a formidable batting lineup and RR looking to regain momentum, this promises to be an exciting contest. Below is a detailed preview of the match, including team analysis, fantasy picks, pitch report, toss prediction, and winner prediction.
Match Details
| Match | PBKS vs RR (Match 18, IPL 2025) |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | April 5, 2025, 7:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Mullanpur, Chandigarh |
| Recent Form | PBKS: W-W-L-W-L, RR: W-L-L-L-W |
Team Previews
Punjab Kings Preview
Punjab Kings have had a dream start to IPL 2025, securing two consecutive victories and topping the points table. Their batting lineup has been explosive, led by skipper Shreyas Iyer, who has scored two unbeaten half-centuries with a staggering strike rate of 206.94. Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have provided strong starts at the top, while Shashank Singh’s finishing prowess adds depth.
The bowling unit, however, remains a concern. Arshdeep Singh has been their standout performer with five wickets in two games, but his economy rate of nearly 10 runs per over highlights the pressure on PBKS bowlers. Yuzvendra Chahal and Marco Jansen need to step up to support Arshdeep. Glenn Maxwell’s all-round abilities could be pivotal if he finds form.
Rajasthan Royals Preview
Rajasthan Royals have had a mixed start to the season, winning one out of three games. Skipper Sanju Samson has been their most consistent performer, scoring crucial runs in all three matches. Nitish Rana’s explosive 81 off 36 balls against CSK showcased his potential as a game-changer. Dhruv Jurel has also impressed with his aggressive approach.
Their bowling attack, traditionally their strength, has lacked consistency. Wanindu Hasaranga has been exceptional, picking up five wickets, including a four-wicket haul in the last game. However, death bowling remains a worry, with Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande proving expensive. Jofra Archer’s return to form could provide much-needed stability.
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reasons |
|---|---|
| PBKS | PBKS’ explosive batting lineup, home advantage, and recent form give them the edge over RR. |
Fantasy Team XI
Fantasy Team XI Table
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Prabhsimran Singh | WK/Batsman | PBKS |
| Sanju Samson | WK/Batsman | RR |
| Shreyas Iyer | Batsman | PBKS |
| Nitish Rana | Batsman | RR |
| Shashank Singh | All-Rounder | PBKS |
| Glenn Maxwell | All-Rounder | PBKS |
| Riyan Parag | Batsman | RR |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler | PBKS |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Bowler | RR |
| Lockie Ferguson | Bowler | PBKS |
| Jofra Archer | Bowler | RR |
Explanation
This fantasy XI balances explosive batting (Prabhsimran, Samson), consistent performers (Iyer, Rana), and wicket-taking bowlers (Arshdeep, Hasaranga). It leans slightly towards PBKS due to their better overall form.
Captain and Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Shreyas Iyer (In-form batsman; capable of anchoring or accelerating)
- Vice-Captain: Sanju Samson (Consistent performer; reliable finisher)
Players to Avoid
- Glenn Maxwell: Yet to contribute significantly with bat or ball.
- Sandeep Sharma: Expensive in the last game and lacks control.
Team Squads and Probable Playing XIs
Squad Tables
| Punjab Kings | Rajasthan Royals |
|---|---|
| Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh | Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson |
| Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh | Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag |
| Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell | Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer |
| Suryansh Shedge, Marco Jansen | Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer |
| Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal | Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma |
| Arshdeep Singh | Tushar Deshpande |
Probable Playing XI
| Punjab Kings | Rajasthan Royals |
|---|---|
| Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh | Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson |
| Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh | Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag |
| Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell | Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer |
| Suryansh Shedge, Marco Jansen | Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer |
| Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal | Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma |
| Arshdeep Singh | Tushar Deshpande |
Pitch Report
The Mullanpur pitch is known to be batting-friendly, offering assistance to batters throughout the game. While pacers may get some initial swing, spinners are expected to play a crucial role in the middle overs. A par score of around 190-200 could be competitive.
Toss Prediction
Bowling first is the preferred choice, as three of the last five IPL games at this venue were won by teams chasing totals.
Winner Prediction
Punjab Kings hold the edge due to their explosive batting lineup, home advantage, and recent form. However, RR’s bowling depth ensures a competitive contest.
Final Answer: ⬛ Punjab Kings
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