IPL 2025 Qualifier 1: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Match Preview
Match Overview
In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Qualifier 1 match. This exciting encounter will take place at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on May 26, starting at 07:30 PM IST.
Punjab Kings' Journey
Punjab Kings enter this match following a convincing 7-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians in their last league game. Under the guidance of Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, the team has performed remarkably well, finishing at the top of the IPL 2025 points table with 9 wins out of 14 matches. This marks their first qualification for the Qualifiers since 2014. With a strong batting lineup and effective bowling, they aim to secure a place in the IPL 2025 final.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Performance
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured the second position in the IPL 2025 points table after a thrilling win against Lucknow Super Giants. Led by Jitesh Sharma, they are on a quest for their inaugural IPL title. The team has been impressive this season, winning all 7 of their away matches. They hope to maintain their winning streak and reach the finals, having last qualified in 2016.
Pitch Analysis
The pitch at Mullanpur is known for providing a balanced contest between bat and ball. This season, the average first innings score has been around 173, indicating that batting may prove challenging. Bowlers, particularly leg-break bowlers and medium pacers, are expected to find assistance from the pitch.
Head-to-Head Record: PBKS vs RCB
| PBKS vs RCB head-to-head | |
| Matches Played | 35 |
| Won by Punjab Kings | 18 |
| Won by Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 17 |
| No Result | 0 |
| Tied | 0 |
Predicted Playing XI
Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (c), Harpreet Brar, Kyle Jamieson, Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis (wk), Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Nehal Wadhera, Arshdeep Singh, Priyansh Arya.
(Impact Subs: Prabhsimran Singh, Musheer Ahmed Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Xavier Bartlett, Praveen Dubey, Harnoor Singh)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Romario Shepherd, Jitesh Sharma (c/wk), Tim Seifert, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma.
(Impact Subs: Rajat Patidar, Rasikh Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Nuwan Thushara, Swapnil Singh)
Key Players to Watch
Top Wicketkeeper Picks
- Josh Inglis | PBKS: In excellent form this season, Inglis has scored 197 runs in 8 matches, including a half-century against MI. He could be a valuable addition to your fantasy team.
- Jitesh Sharma | RCB: After a slow start, Sharma found his rhythm with a half-century against LSG, totaling 237 runs in 10 innings. His performance could enhance your fantasy lineup.
Top Batters to Consider
- Shreyas Iyer | PBKS: With 514 runs at an average of 51.40, Iyer is in great form and a solid choice for your fantasy XI.
- Virat Kohli | RCB: Kohli has been consistent, scoring 602 runs in 13 matches with an average of 60.20. His recent performances make him a must-have in your fantasy team.
Top All-Rounder Selections
- Marco Jansen | PBKS: Jansen has been impactful, scoring 75 runs and taking 16 wickets this season. He is a key player for your fantasy XI.
- Krunal Pandya | RCB: Pandya has contributed significantly with 105 runs and 15 wickets, making him an essential pick for your fantasy team.
Top Bowlers to Include
- Harpreet Brar | PBKS: Brar has taken 10 wickets in 6 matches, proving to be a crucial bowler for PBKS. He is a must-have in your fantasy lineup.
- Josh Hazlewood | RCB: Returning from injury, Hazlewood has taken 18 wickets this season and will be eager to make an impact in this match.