Arshdeep Singh Urges Punjab Fans to Rally Behind Punjab Kings Ahead of IPL 2025 Qualifier
Punjab Kings Prepare for IPL 2025 Qualifier 1
Arshdeep Singh, a pacer for Punjab Kings (PBKS), has made an eye-catching statement regarding the support from Punjab fans as they gear up for their IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This crucial game is set to take place at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, on Thursday, May 29.
The Punjab Kings secured their playoff position after a victory over the Rajasthan Royals, coupled with the Gujarat Titans' win against the Delhi Capitals. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, the team concluded the league stage at the top of the table, achieving nine wins, four losses, and one no result, totaling 19 points from 14 matches. Their final league match saw them triumph over the Mumbai Indians.
Arshdeep Singh's Bold Statement
As the Punjab Kings prepare for their highly anticipated Qualifier 1 against RCB, Arshdeep Singh made a surprising remark about the local fanbase. In a viral video on social media, he responded to a fan who expressed their support for him on Snapchat.
The fan wrote, "Brother, I’m not Punjabi, but still I support only you, love you brother." In his reply, Arshdeep expressed gratitude for the fan's support but pointed out that many Punjabis do not back their home team. He encouraged them to show their support during the match against RCB.
"Thank you for your support. Even though you’re not Punjabi, you’re backing Punjab, while many locals have different favorite teams. I urge them to support Punjab, their state, and their team, and come out in large numbers to witness our victory," Arshdeep stated.
Fan Reactions and Perspectives
In response to Arshdeep's comments, a fan tweeted, "Sorry Arshdeep Singh, I have always supported you. But fans are earned, not begged. Jammu Kashmir doesn't have an IPL team, but that doesn't mean we won't support anyone. Similarly, if someone from Punjab supports CSK, it's because CSK has earned them."
The Punjab Kings are looking to make a significant playoff appearance for the first time since 2014, when they reached the finals but were defeated by the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Head-to-Head: Punjab Kings vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
This match marks the 36th encounter between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL history. Out of the previous 35 matches, PBKS has won 18, while RCB has claimed victory in 17, showcasing a fiercely competitive rivalry.
This season, PBKS and RCB have faced each other twice, with RCB winning their last match by seven wickets at Mullanpur. Notably, RCB has maintained an unbeaten record in away matches this season, presenting a significant challenge for Punjab Kings as they aim to secure a direct spot in the finals.