RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025: Match Preview, Head-to-Head, Playing XI & Key Battles

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RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025: All You Need to Know About This Thrilling Clash

RCB vs PBKS

RCB vs PBKS

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 34th match of IPL 2025! Set for April 18, 2025, at Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the action kicks off at 7:30 PM. Both teams are in a fierce battle to solidify their spots in the top four of the points table, making this clash a must-watch. In this blog, we’ll dive into their head-to-head history, likely playing XIs, and key moments that could light up the game. All the info here is fresh, accurate, and ready to get you pumped!

RCB vs PBKS: Head-to-Head Record

RCB and PBKS have faced off 33 times in IPL history, with PBKS holding a slight edge, winning 17 matches to RCB’s 16. However, RCB has been dominant lately, sweeping the last three encounters. Here’s a quick look at their rivalry:

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  • Total Matches: 33
  • PBKS Wins: 17
  • RCB Wins: 16
  • Recent 5 Matches:
    • IPL 2024 (Match 58, Dharamsala): RCB cruised to a 60-run victory, powered by Virat Kohli’s 92 and Rajat Patidar’s 55.
    • IPL 2024 (Match 6, Bengaluru): RCB sealed a 4-wicket win.
    • IPL 2023: PBKS snatched a dramatic last-over thriller.
    • At Chinnaswamy, the teams have clashed 11 times, with RCB winning 6 and PBKS 5.

RCB’s recent form against PBKS gives them a psychological edge, but PBKS, under new leadership, could shake things up with fresh tactics.

Likely Playing XIs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB is riding high this season, sitting third with 8 points from 4 wins in 6 games. Their batting and bowling are clicking beautifully. Here’s their probable lineup:

  1. Virat Kohli
  2. Phil Salt
  3. Rajat Patidar (C)
  4. Liam Livingstone
  5. Jitesh Sharma (WK)
  6. Tim David
  7. Krunal Pandya
  8. Josh Hazlewood
  9. Suyash Sharma
  10. Yash Dayal
  11. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
    Impact Player: Swapnil Singh / Romario Shepherd

https://powerplayreport.com

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

PBKS is also in fine form, holding fourth place with 8 points from 4 wins in 6 matches. Their stunning 16-run defense against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased their grit. Here’s their likely XI:

  1. Prabhsimran Singh (WK)
  2. Priyansh Arya
  3. Shreyas Iyer (C)
  4. Nehal Wadhera
  5. Shashank Singh
  6. Glenn Maxwell
  7. Marcus Stoinis
  8. Marco Jansen
  9. Yuzvendra Chahal
  10. Arshdeep Singh
  11. Xavier Bartlett
    Impact Player: Suryansh Shedge / Vishnu Vinod

Moments to Watch Out For

  1. Kohli vs Chahal Showdown: The battle between Virat Kohli and Yuzvendra Chahal promises fireworks. Chahal, a former RCB star, is in top form this season, while Kohli’s aggressive batting could test his crafty spin. This duel might just steal the show!
  2. Shreyas Iyer’s Leadership: PBKS’s new skipper, Shreyas Iyer, has impressed with his calm captaincy and batting. After a quiet outing against KKR, he’ll be eager to make a statement against RCB.
  3. Chinnaswamy’s Run-Fest: Known as a batter’s paradise, Chinnaswamy’s short boundaries and quick outfield often lead to high-scoring thrillers. With an average first-innings score of around 190, expect both teams’ explosive batters to aim for 200+.
  4. Hazlewood vs PBKS Top Order: Josh Hazlewood’s pinpoint accuracy could trouble PBKS’s openers, especially Prabhsimran Singh and Shreyas Iyer. Early wickets could swing the game RCB’s way.
  5. Last-Over Drama: Both teams have thrived in intense finishes. PBKS’s epic low-score defense against KKR and RCB’s smooth chase of 174 against Rajasthan Royals (RR) prove they’re clutch. If this game goes down to the wire, expect heart-pounding action!

Recent Form

  • RCB: RCB is buzzing after a commanding 9-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals, chasing 174 with just one wicket down. Virat Kohli (62 off 45) and captain Rajat Patidar have the team brimming with confidence.
  • PBKS: PBKS pulled off a historic upset against KKR, defending a modest 111—the lowest score defended this season. Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh were the heroes with the ball.

Weather and Pitch Report

  • Weather: Bengaluru’s evening forecast looks clear, with temperatures between 27-30°C and no chance of rain—perfect for cricket!
  • Pitch: Chinnaswamy’s surface favors batters, with its short boundaries and fast outfield. Pacers might get some early swing, but spinners will need to be clever to contain the runs.

Final Thoughts

Tonight’s RCB vs PBKS clash is shaping up to be a blockbuster. RCB, with home advantage and red-hot form, might have a slight edge, but PBKS’s new energy, led by Chahal’s wizardry and Iyer’s captaincy, makes them a serious threat. All eyes will be on stars like Kohli and Iyer to deliver. Will RCB keep their winning streak alive, or will PBKS pull off a stunner at Chinnaswamy? Tune in tonight to find out!

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