PBKS vs RR LIVE IPL 2025: Punjab vs Rajasthan Match Preview, Stats, Key Players, Pitch, Weather Report

PBKS vs RR LIVE IPL 2025: The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh will witness an intriguing battle as table-toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on the struggling Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 18 of IPL 2025. Punjab Kings have made a spectacular start to their campaign, occupying the summit of the points table with consistent performances across departments. Their balanced squad and clinical execution have established them as early favorites for a playoff spot, while they look to extend their dominance against a team fighting to gain momentum.

Rajasthan Royals, conversely, find themselves at the opposite end of the standings despite their historically strong head-to-head record against Punjab. After a disappointing start to IPL 2025, the inaugural champions are desperate to turn their fortunes around. With a squad boasting considerable talent and experience, RR will aim to replicate their previous successes against PBKS and kickstart their campaign before it's too late. This contrast in current form adds a compelling narrative to a fixture that has produced numerous memorable encounters in the past.

Punjab vs Rajasthan Head-to-Head Stats

• Overall: RR leads 16-11 in 28 matches (1 no result)
• Highest Score: RR - 226/6 in 19.3 overs (Sharjah, 2020)
• Lowest Score: PBKS - 124 all out in 18.5 overs (Jaipur, 2013)

Biggest Victory (by runs):

• PBKS: 48-run win (IPL 2011)
• RR: 78-run win (Durban, IPL 2009)

Closest Finish:

• PBKS: 4-run win (IPL 2021)
• RR: 2-run win (IPL 2021)

Last Season (IPL 2024):

• March 15, 2024: PBKS won by 5 wickets
• April 13, 2024: RR won by 3 wickets

PBKS vs RR: Key Players to Watch

Punjab Kings:

• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer has been exceptional against RR with 17 wickets in 9 matches, including a remarkable 5/32 in IPL 2021.
• Sam Curran: His all-round abilities provide crucial balance to the Punjab outfit.
• Shikhar Dhawan: The experienced opener's form will be vital in setting a strong foundation.

Rajasthan Royals:

• Sanju Samson: With 632 runs in 19 matches against PBKS including a brilliant 119, the RR captain has consistently excelled in this fixture.
• Jos Buttler: The explosive opener can single-handedly change the course of the game.
• Yuzvendra Chahal: His leg-spin could prove decisive, especially on the Mullanpur track.

Pitch and Weather Report

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur is still establishing its IPL identity. Early indications suggest a balanced surface that offers something for both batters and bowlers. The longer boundaries compared to some other IPL venues mean that batsmen need to time their shots perfectly to clear the ropes, while spinners might find assistance as the match progresses.

Weather conditions in Chandigarh for the match day forecast clear skies with temperatures hovering around 28-30°C. Humidity levels are expected to be moderate, with minimal chance of precipitation, ensuring a full 40-over contest. The dew factor might come into play during the second innings, potentially influencing the toss decision, with teams likely to prefer chasing at this venue.