Punjab Kings and RCB Clash in IPL Qualifier 1 Showdown

MOHALI, India — The first qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will see the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face off on May 29, 2025, in New Chandigarh. Both teams are vying for their first IPL title, making this match crucial for their aspirations.

This is PBKS’s first playoff appearance since 2014, when they finished at the top of the league stage, only to lose to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final. RCB, frequent playoff contenders, last finished in the top two in 2016, but they too fell short against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in that year’s playoffs.

In IPL 2025, PBKS has thrived on the performance of their uncapped Indian players, contrasting with RCB’s traditional roster of superstars. This year, RCB’s captain has only four international caps and their vice-captain has nine, signaling a shift in team dynamics.

Both teams will welcome back key bowlers after injury spells. PBKS’s bowler missed the last two matches due to a wrist issue but is expected to return. RCB anticipates the return of a key player after a shoulder injury.

Each side will miss a significant player; PBKS’s all-rounder has returned to South Africa for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, while RCB’s player is doubtful due to an injury sustained against SRH.

Though PBKS will enjoy a home advantage, RCB is confident from their recent victory against PBKS at this venue. Backup plans are in place, as the losing team on Thursday will have another chance to reach the finals.

In terms of batting prowess, both Virat Kohli of RCB and Shreyas Iyer of PBKS are key figures. Kohli boasts 608 runs at a strike rate of 147.91, while Iyer has scored 514 runs at 171.90. Recent form favors Kohli, who was the Player of the Match the last time these teams met, while Iyer has struggled against RCB bowlers in this season.

PBKS’s probable lineup includes Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, and Shreyas Iyer, while RCB is likely to field Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, and Mayank Agarwal. Weather reports indicate a sunny day with temperatures around 30°C, making for a favorable match day.