IPL 2025: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Match Preview

Apr 18, 2025

 IPL 2025: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Match Preview, Pitch Report, Head-to-Head & Prediction

Match Overview

• Match: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore

• Date: 18 April, 2025

• Time: 7:30 PM IST

• Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur

• Live Streaming: JioCinema | Star Sports Network

Punjab hosts Bangalore in a crucial mid-season clash. Both sides need consistency and will be eyeing this game to build momentum.

Pitch Report

The new stadium in Mullanpur has shown variable behavior. While the outfield is quick, the pitch has grip and bounce, favoring spinners and slower deliveries.

Weather:

Clear skies with temp around 31°C. Dew may play a role in the second half.

 Head-to-Head Record

Teams Matches  PBKS Wins RCB Wins

PBKS vs RCB    31   17    14

Punjab holds a slight advantage historically, especially at home venues.

 Predicted Playing 11

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

Shikhar Dhawan (C), Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB):

Faf du Plessis (C), Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik (WK), Mahipal Lomror, Cameron Green, Karn Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Mayank Daga

 Players to Watch

•  Livingstone: Big-hitting threat, especially against spin.

• Faf du Plessis: Solid top-order presence for RCB.

• Jasprit Bumrah: Will test GT’s top order with new ball magic.

• Rashid Khan: MI batters have struggled against his variations.

Fantasy Tips (Focus11 Exclusive)

• Captain Picks: Suryakumar / Gill

• Vice-Captain: Bumrah / Rashid

• Budget Picks: Harpreet Brar, Mayank Dagar

• Grand League Tip: Go for all-rounders who bat in middle overs & bowl in powerplay.

Match Prediction

RCB has struggled with balance this season, while PBKS looks better equipped on home turf. Expect a tight finish.

Prediction: Punjab Kings to defend a total successfully.