The Indian Premier League 2025 has reached its most intense phase — the playoffs. As expected, the TATA IPL 2025 has delivered high-voltage drama, and now it’s time for the top four contenders to battle it out for the coveted trophy. The first qualifier match is being played today, May 29, between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at the newly built Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh.
Both PBKS and RCB are chasing their maiden IPL title, making this clash all the more thrilling for fans across the globe.
In a strategic move, RCB captain Rajat Patidar, who has emerged as a bold and fearless leader this season, won the toss and elected to bowl first. The decision to chase in a high-pressure playoff match shows confidence in RCB’s deep batting line-up and the bowling unit’s ability to restrict even the best.
This season has also witnessed a few surprises in terms of leadership. While many expected seasoned campaigners like Kohli or Maxwell to lead the team, it is Rajat Patidar who has taken the reins for RCB. On the other hand, Punjab Kings are being led by Shreyas Iyer, adding a layer of experience and calm to their dynamic squad.
Punjab Kings Playing XI:
- Priyansh Arya
- Prabhsimran Singh
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Shreyas Iyer (c)
- Nehal Wadhera
- Shashank Singh
- Marcus Stoinis
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Harpreet Brar
- Arshdeep Singh
- Kyle Jamieson
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI:
- Virat Kohli
- Phil Salt
- Rajat Patidar (c)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Romario Shepherd
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Yash Dayal
- Josh Hazlewood
- Suyash Sharma
This fixture promises to be a battle of young guns and experienced warhorses. RCB’s line-up looks balanced, with a solid pace attack featuring Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, while Kohli and Salt provide firepower at the top. The inclusion of Livingstone and Shepherd gives them flexibility in the middle overs.
On the other hand, PBKS boasts a dynamic combination, with the explosive Josh Inglis behind the stumps and power-hitters like Stoinis and Shashank in the middle. Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round skills have been a big asset this season, while Arshdeep Singh remains their go-to man with the new ball.
Both teams have had their share of ups and downs this season, but their resilience and consistency have earned them a shot at the title. With a full house expected in Mullanpur, fans can look forward to a high-voltage thriller under the lights.
The winner of this match will directly qualify for the IPL 2025 Final, while the losing team will get another shot in Qualifier 2. Given the pressure and the stakes, expect a nail-biting contest with no room for error.
As we gear up for this epic showdown between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, only one question remains — Who will take one step closer to their first-ever IPL crown?
