PBKS vs RR: In a pulsating encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Punjab Kings (PBKS) clinched a thrilling 10-run victory over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 59 of the IPL 2025 season. The win came on the back of a blistering batting performance by Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh, followed by a disciplined bowling effort led by Harpreet Brar.
PBKS Opt to Bat and Set a Mammoth Target
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, PBKS got off to a steady start but truly shifted gears thanks to a scintillating 70 off 37 balls by Nehal Wadhera. The left-hander was aggressive from the get-go, punishing anything short or full with equal disdain.
Wadhera found a strong ally in Shashank Singh, who played the perfect finisher’s role with an unbeaten 59 off just 30 balls, peppered with boundaries and well-timed sixes. Their contributions helped PBKS post a formidable 219/5 in 20 overs.
Despite the carnage, Rajasthan’s bowling saw some bright spots. Tushar Deshpande picked up 2 wickets for 37 runs in his 4-over spell, while Riyan Parag impressed with his off-spin, conceding just 26 in 3 overs and picking up a key wicket.
RR’s Chase Falls Short Despite Heroics
Chasing 220, RR began with intent as Yashasvi Jaiswal raced to a quickfire 50 off 25 balls, setting the tone for the chase. However, the middle order couldn’t maintain the tempo once Jaiswal departed.
It was Dhruv Jurel who resurrected hopes with a calculated and aggressive innings of 53 off 31 balls, but wickets at crucial junctures pegged RR back. The chase saw a late surge from Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose 40 off just 15 balls brought the game alive in the final overs.
Despite the fireworks, PBKS bowlers held their nerve. Harpreet Brar was the standout with magical figures of 3/22 in 4 overs, breaking the backbone of RR’s batting. Marco Jansen and Azmatullah Omarzai chipped in with 2 wickets apiece, ensuring the Royals fell just short at 209/7.
Key Performers
Punjab Kings:
- Nehal Wadhera – 70 (37)
- Shashank Singh – 59* (30)
- Harpreet Brar – 3/22 (4)
Rajasthan Royals:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – 50 (25)
- Dhruv Jurel – 53 (31)
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 40 (15)
What This Means
With this victory, PBKS boosts its standing in the points table, inching closer to a playoff berth. The team showed excellent balance, with contributions from both batters and bowlers. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, will rue missed opportunities and will need to regroup quickly to stay in contention for the top four.
Final Scorecard Summary:
Punjab Kings – 219/5 (20 overs)
Nehal Wadhera 70 (37), Shashank Singh 59* (30); Tushar Deshpande 2/37
Rajasthan Royals – 209/7 (20 overs)
Dhruv Jurel 53 (31), Yashasvi Jaiswal 50 (25); Harpreet Brar 3/22
Result: PBKS won by 10 runs
Venue: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
Player of the Match: Harpreet Brar (PBKS)
