Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Match 37 of IPL 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, on Sunday. In their previous encounter in Match 34, PBKS emerged victorious by five wickets, leaving RCB with redemption on their minds as they head into this high-stakes contest.
The Mullanpur pitch is known for being batter-friendly, providing opportunities for big runs. However, it also offers early assistance to pace bowlers, especially with the new ball. The weather forecast predicts a temperature of 29°C, with light rain possible on match day, which could add an element of unpredictability.
PBKS, under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, have been in superb form, sitting comfortably in second place with five wins from seven matches. Meanwhile, RCB, placed fourth with eight points from seven games, will be aiming to make a significant push to improve their standing. Interestingly, RCB’s four victories have all come away from home, making this match crucial for them.
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Historically, the two teams have met 34 times in the IPL, with PBKS winning 18 encounters and RCB claiming 16 victories. The most recent match between the sides saw PBKS securing a rain-affected win, but RCB had previously dominated, winning three consecutive matches against PBKS.
As we prepare for this thrilling contest, let’s take a look at the three key player battles that could decide the outcome of this exciting encounter between PBKS and RCB.
#1 Shreyas Iyer vs Josh Hazlewood
One of the most captivating battles in this IPL encounter will be between Shreyas Iyer and Josh Hazlewood. Iyer, PBKS’s top run-scorer, has been in explosive form this season, consistently leading the charge with the bat. However, Hazlewood, RCB’s leading wicket-taker, will be keen to get the better of Iyer. In previous IPL showdowns, Hazlewood has managed to dismiss Iyer twice while conceding just three runs off 12 balls. This matchup, featuring Iyer’s aggressive style against Hazlewood’s precision, is set to be a major highlight of the game.
#2 Jitesh Sharma vs Yuzvendra Chahal
Jitesh Sharma’s battle against Yuzvendra Chahal will also be crucial. Chahal, PBKS’s key leg-spinner, has a strong record against Sharma in past encounters, having dismissed him twice and limiting him to just 39 runs at a strike rate of 130. Sharma, known for his explosive middle-order hitting, will be eager to turn the tables and get the better of the seasoned leg-spinner this time.
#3 Devdutt Padikkal vs Arshdeep Singh
Devdutt Padikkal’s second stint with RCB has been inconsistent, yet he remains crucial at number three. Arshdeep Singh will target the left-hander, especially during the powerplay. Padikkal has a mixed record against Singh, scoring quickly but falling three times in six encounters, averaging just 16.33. This clash could shape the game’s momentum.
