Punjab Kings (PBSK) are riding high on confidence as they prepare to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 18 of IPL 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur this Saturday evening. With back-to-back wins under their belt, the Kings look like a side on a mission. Skipper Shreyas Iyer has been in sensational form, leading from the front with two explosive fifties.
With 149 runs in just two games at a blistering strike rate of over 200, Iyer has provided solidity and the spark at the top, hammering 13 sixes along the way. He’s been well-supported by Prabhsimran Singh, who anchored the chase against Lucknow with a match-winning 69, and promising youngsters Priyansh Arya and Shashank Singh, who have stepped up when needed.
Punjab have looked fearless and dominant with this deep and aggressive batting order. On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh remains the leader of the attack, showcasing his ability to swing the ball and keep things tight in the powerplay. Meanwhile, Vijaykumar Vyshak has proven to be a revelation—especially as an Impact Player—delivering crucial overs both upfront and at the death.
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Rajasthan Royals, in contrast, find themselves in a tricky spot. With just one win in three games, they are desperate to bounce back. The return of Sanju Samson to full-time captaincy after recovering from a finger injury gives the team a lift. He’ll take back the gloves from Riyan Parag, who led in his absence. However, RR’s top order remains under scrutiny, especially Yashasvi Jaiswal’s form, which has been far from inspiring.
Key Battles to Watch
#1 Shreyas Iyer vs Jofra Archer
The battle between Iyer and Archer promises to be fiery. Iyer has been in unstoppable touch, but Archer’s pace, bounce, and ability to strike early can test any batter. This duel could very well set the tone for the innings.
#2 Arshdeep Singh vs Yashasvi Jaiswal
Arshdeep’s tidy new-ball spells make him a constant threat, and with Jaiswal short on runs—just 34 in three innings—the pressure will be immense. Arshdeep has already dismissed him twice in five matchups, conceding just 26 off 20 balls. Expect another tight contest here.
#3 Sanju Samson vs Yuzvendra Chahal
Old teammates turn rivals in this fascinating matchup. Chahal has dismissed Samson five times in the IPL, more than any other bowler. With only 42 runs scored off 42 balls against the leggie, Samson will need to dig deep to flip the script. Their history and inside knowledge of each other’s game could make this battle a pivotal one in the contest.
