PBKS vs RR Today match | Live Score Today Match | Dream 11 Playing Team Today Prediction

 ​The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to witness an electrifying clash between the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and the Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 5, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Mohali. This encounter marks the 18th match of the season and promises to be a thrilling contest, given the history and current form of both teams. 

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, RR have had the upper hand in their encounters with PBKS. Out of 28 matches played between the two sides, RR have emerged victorious 16 times, while PBKS have secured 11 wins, with one match ending in a tie. This statistic underscores the competitive nature of their rivalry and sets the stage for an intense battle. 

Team Form and Key Players

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

PBKS have undergone significant changes in the recent past, including a rebranding from Kings XI Punjab in 2021. Despite these efforts, the elusive IPL title has remained out of reach. In the 2024 season, PBKS finished ninth with just five wins. However, the appointment of Shreyas Iyer as captain, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to a title previously, has infused new hope into the squad. The team boasts a mix of experienced players like Glenn Maxwell and emerging talents such as Prabhsimran Singh, aiming to make a significant impact this season. 

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

RR, the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, have been striving to add a second title to their cabinet. The 2024 season saw them finish third, showcasing a strong performance throughout. The team is led by Sanju Samson, with key players including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, and the dynamic Jofra Archer. Archer, despite recording the most expensive IPL spell with 0-76 in four overs against Sunrisers Hyderabad, remains a pivotal figure in RR's bowling attack. ​ 

Previous Encounters

The last meeting between PBKS and RR was on April 14, 2024, at the same venue. In that match, RR clinched a thrilling victory by three wickets, thanks to Shimron Hetmyer's heroics in the final over. Chasing a target of 148, Hetmyer scored an unbeaten 27 off 10 balls, including two sixes in the last over, to guide RR to victory. 

Match Venue

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Mohali, is known for its batting-friendly pitch, offering ample opportunities for high-scoring games. The venue's conditions are expected to favor batsmen, but bowlers who can adapt to the pitch may find success.​ 

Key Battles to Watch

1. Shreyas Iyer vs. Jofra Archer: The PBKS skipper's technique against Archer's pace and bounce will be a crucial contest.​

2. Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Arshdeep Singh: Jaiswal's aggressive batting style against Arshdeep's swing bowling could set the tone for RR's innings.​ 

3. Glenn Maxwell vs. Ravichandran Ashwin: Maxwell's explosive batting against Ashwin's spin mastery promises an intriguing middle-over battle.​ 

Strategies and Expectations

Punjab Kings:

PBKS are likely to focus on building a solid opening partnership to set a strong foundation. With players like Glenn Maxwell and Shreyas Iyer in the middle order, they have the firepower to accelerate in the latter stages. Bowling-wise, Arshdeep Singh's ability to swing the ball early on and Kagiso Rabada's pace will be crucial in containing RR's top order.​

Rajasthan Royals:

RR will aim to capitalize on their strong batting lineup, with Jaiswal and Samson providing stability at the top. The inclusion of power-hitters like Hetmyer and all-rounders such as Riyan Parag adds depth to their batting. On the bowling front, despite Archer's recent expensive spell, his pace remains a significant threat, and the team will rely on him to make early inroads. 

Injury Updates and Squad News

As of the latest reports, both teams are likely to be close to full strength, but some key updates can influence the outcome of the game:

• PBKS Injuries: There are minor concerns around Liam Livingstone's fitness, who picked up a niggle in a previous match. The medical team will likely make a last-minute call. His presence adds significant all-round depth, and PBKS would be keen to have him in the XI.

• RR Team News: Jos Buttler has returned to form recently and looks in top shape. His aggressive starts have made RR a dangerous side in the powerplay. The inclusion of young Indian spinner Kuldip Yadav has also been a big plus, as he complements the experience of Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal well.

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Pitch and Weather Report

The Mullanpur pitch has shown variable bounce, which aids both pacers and stroke-makers. The square boundaries are on the shorter side, allowing batters to take risks during the death overs.

• Weather Forecast: Clear skies and a temperature hovering around 28°C promise ideal conditions for cricket. Dew is expected to play a factor in the second innings, meaning the toss winner might opt to chase.

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What’s at Stake?

This game is more than just another league fixture—it has implications for momentum, mid-table movement, and team morale.

• PBKS: With one win from their first three games, they are under pressure to get back into the top half of the table. A loss here could dent their playoff hopes early in the tournament.

• RR: They are looking strong with two wins in their bag already. A win tonight could propel them into the top two and establish them as early contenders for a playoff spot.

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X-Factor Players

Here are some game-changers who could decide the match with one exceptional performance:

1. Sam Curran (PBKS): His dual role as a hard-hitting finisher and a reliable death bowler makes him indispensable. If PBKS are to defend a total or chase one down, Curran’s cameo might make all the difference.

2. Riyan Parag (RR): Once considered an underperformer, Parag has come into his own this season. His fearless approach and clever use of the field make him a threat in the middle overs.

3. Rahul Chahar (PBKS): On a dry surface, his leg-spin could trap RR’s middle-order batters. Expect him to be used tactically against left-handers like Hetmyer and Jurel.

4. Yuzvendra Chahal (RR): The leading wicket-taker in IPL history knows how to break partnerships at crucial junctures. His match-up against Shikhar Dhawan and Maxwell could be key.

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Predicted Playing XIs

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

1. Shikhar Dhawan (C)

2. Prabhsimran Singh (wk)

3. Shreyas Iyer

4. Liam Livingstone / Sikandar Raza

5. Glenn Maxwell

6. Sam Curran

7. Jitesh Sharma

8. Harpreet Brar

9. Kagiso Rabada

10. Rahul Chahar

11. Arshdeep Singh

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal

2. Jos Buttler

3. Sanju Samson (C & wk)

4. Riyan Parag

5. Shimron Hetmyer

6. Dhruv Jurel

7. Ravichandran Ashwin

8. Yuzvendra Chahal

9. Kuldeep Sen

10. Jofra Archer

11. Trent Boult

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Fantasy Picks (Top 5)

If you're putting together a fantasy team, here are some solid picks:

1. Jos Buttler – Back in rhythm and always a strong T20 contender.

2. Glenn Maxwell – Capable of a big knock and chipping in with the ball.

3. Jofra Archer – Raw pace and bounce on this surface could fetch him wickets.

4. Sam Curran – Involved in multiple facets of the game.

5. Shreyas Iyer – Solid anchor who could control the innings from No. 3.

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Final Thoughts and Prediction

Both teams come into this match with different forms and energies. RR look more settled with their playing XI, whereas PBKS are still finding their rhythm. If Punjab can win the toss and chase, they’ll have a good shot thanks to the dew factor and power-packed batting order.

However, Rajasthan Royals hold a slight edge due to their overall team balance, better head-to-head record, and recent form. Expect fireworks from both sides, but the Royals might just sneak a close win—unless one of PBKS's stars produces something extraordinary.

Conclusion

As PBKS and RR prepare to face off in this highly anticipated match, both teams have points to prove and ambitions to fulfill. PBKS will be eager to overturn their recent fortunes and leverage their home advantage, while RR aim to continue their dominance in this fixture. Fans can expect a contest filled with strategic maneuvers, individual brilliance, and the unpredictable excitement that the IPL consistently delivers.

FAQ

When is the PBKS vs RR match scheduled

Date: April 5, 2025 Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh

Where can I watch the PBKS vs RR match live

India: Star Sports Network (TV) and JioCinema (Free Live Streaming) USA: Willow TV, Sling TV, FuboTV UK Australia: Sky Sports and Fox Cricket respectively

What is the head-to-head record between PBKS and RR

Matches Played: 28 RR Wins: 16 PBKS Wins: 11 Tied/No Result: 1

How have both teams performed so far in IPL 2025

PBKS: Won 2 of their first 3 matches RR: Won 1 of their first 3 matches

What key player milestones could happen in today’s match

Sanju Samson (RR): Needs 57 runs for 7,500 T20 runs Shimron Hetmyer (RR): 27 runs away from 5,000 T20 runs Marcus Stoinis (PBKS): 52 runs to reach 6,500 T20 runs Shreyas Iyer (PBKS): 1 catch away from 50 IPL catches Jofra Archer (RR): 1 wicket away from 50 IPL wickets

What is the pitch report for PBKS vs RR

The Mullanpur pitch is batting-friendly with short square boundaries Spinners may come into play in the middle overs Dew in the evening might favor chasing teams