Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Prediction – 18th T20 IPL, Dream11 Prediction, Betting Tips, Playing XI, Pitch & Weather Report

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Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals prediction – Who will win today’s match? The 18th T20 of the Indian Premier League 2025 is set for a thrilling showdown on Saturday, 5th April 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh. This will be Punjab Kings’ first home game of the season, and they are riding high on form. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, are looking to find consistency. Let’s dive into a complete match preview including team analysis, fantasy tips, stats, pitch and weather report, and much more.

Match Details

Details	Information
Match	Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 18th Match, IPL 2025
Date	Saturday, 5th April 2025
Time	7:30 PM IST
Venue	Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Int’l Stadium, Chandigarh
Live Broadcast	Star Sports Network, JioHotstar

Team Previews

Punjab Kings Preview

Punjab Kings (PBKS) have made a strong start in IPL 2025, winning their first two matches convincingly. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and the strategic guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, the team appears well-balanced with both their batting and bowling departments delivering solid performances. However, as they prepare to play their first home game of the season, the challenge will be to maintain consistency. The Kings have had to shift between multiple home venues in recent seasons, which has made it difficult to establish a stronghold.

Despite this, their performances in the early stages of the tournament indicate that they have found the right mix of experience and young talent. With a power-packed top order, an aggressive middle order, and a versatile bowling attack, PBKS will be keen to carry forward their momentum. However, facing a strong opponent in Rajasthan Royals will test their adaptability and execution under pressure.

Batting Preview

Punjab Kings’ batting lineup has been in stellar form, with key contributions coming from multiple players. Priyansh Arya has taken the role of the aggressive opener, playing an explosive 47-run knock against Gujarat Titans. He will be partnered by Prabhsimran Singh, who has already registered a match-winning half-century (69 off 34) in the second game. This opening combination ensures PBKS gets off to a flying start, putting pressure on the opposition bowlers early in the innings.

The backbone of PBKS’ batting, however, is their captain Shreyas Iyer. The stylish right-hander has started IPL 2025 in sensational form, scoring two unbeaten half-centuries (97* & 52*). His ability to pace his innings and anchor the middle order makes him one of the most crucial players for PBKS. Additionally, his leadership on the field has been instrumental in guiding the team to consecutive wins.

Nehal Wadhera, who has remained unbeaten in both games, provides further stability at No.4. The left-hander’s 43* off 25 balls in the previous game proved to be a match-winning contribution. He will be followed by explosive all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. While Maxwell has yet to make a significant impact with the bat, his presence alone makes PBKS’ middle order dangerous. On the other hand, Stoinis has contributed 20 runs with the bat but has been expensive with the ball.

Bowling Preview

Arshdeep Singh has been the standout performer in Punjab’s bowling attack. With five wickets in two matches, he has led from the front, troubling opposition batters with his swing and accuracy. His ability to deliver in the powerplay and death overs makes him the most reliable bowler in the squad.

Supporting him is a strong pace duo in Lockie Ferguson and Marco Jansen. While Ferguson has played just one match so far, his express pace and ability to bowl in the middle overs will be crucial. Jansen, on the other hand, has already picked up two wickets and provides the left-arm variety in the attack.

Yuzvendra Chahal, the veteran leg-spinner, adds strength to PBKS’ spin department. Although he has only one wicket in two matches, his experience and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs make him a key player. Maxwell and Stoinis offer additional bowling options, but their consistency remains a concern.

Recent Match Performance

PBKS’ last match saw them secure a dominant eight-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants. Opting to bowl first, their bowlers restricted LSG to 171 runs. Arshdeep Singh starred with the ball, picking up three wickets, while Jansen, Ferguson, Maxwell, and Chahal chipped in with one each.

Chasing 172, PBKS’ top order made light work of the target. Prabhsimran Singh (69 off 34) led the charge, supported by Iyer (52* off 30) and Wadhera (43*). Their comprehensive win underlines their strength as a batting-heavy side with a reliable bowling unit.

Rajasthan Royals Preview

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have had a mixed start to IPL 2025. After suffering two early losses, they bounced back strongly with a six-run victory over Chennai Super Kings. While their bowling attack has started finding rhythm, their batting remains a work in progress. The team has struggled to get the desired firepower from its top order, and the lack of impactful overseas performances has made them rely more on Indian talents.

However, under the leadership of Sanju Samson, RR will be looking to build on their recent success and establish themselves as title contenders. With a solid bowling attack and an improving batting lineup, they have the potential to pose a serious threat to any opposition.

Batting Preview

Sanju Samson has been the most consistent batter for RR this season. He has accumulated 108 runs in three matches, including a classy 66 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The RR skipper has enjoyed success against Punjab Kings’ Arshdeep Singh, scoring 39 runs off 22 balls at a strike rate of 177.27 without being dismissed.

Another key contributor has been Dhruv Jurel. The young wicketkeeper-batter has impressed with his aggressive batting, scoring a match-winning 70 against SRH. Jurel’s ability to accelerate in the death overs provides much-needed firepower to RR’s batting unit.

Nitish Rana’s inclusion in the playing XI has proved beneficial, as he smashed 81 off just 36 balls in the last game against CSK. His performance in the middle order will be crucial, especially given Yashasvi Jaiswal’s inconsistent form. Jaiswal, who was one of RR’s top batters last season, has failed to replicate that success in IPL 2025, and his poor form at the top remains a concern.

Riyan Parag has been decent with the bat, scoring 37 against CSK, but the team would expect more contributions from him and the overseas duo of Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell. While Hetmyer has played a few cameos, Powell has struggled to get going, which has put additional pressure on the Indian core.

Bowling Preview

RR’s bowling attack is their biggest strength. The combination of Jofra Archer, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana gives them an edge against any opposition.

Hasaranga has been the pick of the bowlers, picking up five wickets in two games, including a four-wicket haul against CSK. His ability to bowl tight lines and deceive batters with his variations makes him a game-changer. Meanwhile, Archer, who had a poor start to the season, returned to form in the last game, conceding just 13 runs in three overs and picking up a wicket.

Tushar Deshpande, despite his early success (three wickets in the first match), has been expensive in the last two games. He will need to find consistency to provide better support to the pace attack. Theeksana and Kumar Kartikeya add variety to the spin department, but their effectiveness will depend on the pitch conditions.

Recent Match Performance

RR’s most recent game was a nail-biting six-run win over CSK. Batting first, they posted 182 runs, thanks to a brilliant 81 from Nitish Rana. Contributions from Riyan Parag (37) and Sanju Samson (20) ensured a competitive total.

The bowling attack stepped up when it mattered, defending 183 against a formidable CSK batting lineup. Hasaranga led the charge with four wickets, while Archer and Sandeep Sharma picked up crucial scalps. Their ability to hold their nerve in the final overs showcased the potential of their bowling attack.

Also Check: IPL 2025: Sanju Samson to Return as RR Captain; Cleared to Keep Wickets – Reports

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Betting Tips: IPL 2025

The Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals clash presents intriguing betting opportunities as two teams with contrasting forms meet at Mullanpur. With PBKS unbeaten and RR showing signs of resurgence, this match offers several strategic betting angles for punters looking to capitalize on the teams’ current trajectories.

Backing Punjab Kings to win at home offers solid value at around 1.80 odds given their perfect start and explosive batting lineup. Shreyas Iyer’s sensational form makes him a strong candidate for top PBKS batsman at 3.50, while Prabhsimran Singh at 5.00 could be a high-reward alternative after his fifty last game. For Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson remains the safest batting pick at 3.75 for top team batsman, though Nitish Rana at 5.50 presents an interesting gamble after his match-winning 81 against CSK.

The bowling markets favor Wanindu Hasaranga as RR’s likely top wicket-taker at 3.25 given his five wickets in two matches, while Arshdeep Singh at 3.00 leads PBKS’s attack with five scalps already. Considering Mullanpur’s balanced pitch, betting on match totals between 160-170 runs provides reasonable value, with the over/under 165.5 line being particularly interesting given both teams’ batting strengths.

Live betting opportunities may emerge if RR’s fragile top order struggles early, potentially creating value on PBKS at improved odds during the powerplay. Conversely, if Yashasvi Jaiswal finally finds form, RR’s odds could shorten dramatically. The method of dismissal market might favor caught wickets given the extra bounce expected at this venue.

For those seeking higher odds, Shashank Singh to score 25+ runs at 2.75 offers appeal after his explosive 44 off 16 balls last match. Similarly, Marcus Stoinis to take 1+ wicket and score 15+ runs at 3.00 could be worth considering given his all-round capabilities. The sixes market presents opportunities too, with over 9.5 sixes in the match at 1.90 looking achievable given both teams’ power-hitting potential.

The toss could prove crucial, with teams likely preferring to chase at this venue where dew sometimes becomes a factor in the second innings. If RR win the toss and elect to field, their odds of causing an upset improve slightly. However, PBKS’s superior batting depth and current form make them the safer betting proposition across most markets. For accumulator bets, combining PBKS win with Shreyas Iyer to score 30+ runs at around 2.50 provides a balanced risk-reward option.

Dream11/Fantasy Prediction Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals

The Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals encounter at Mullanpur presents fantasy managers with an exciting opportunity to build a winning Dream11 team. With PBKS riding high on confidence and RR looking to build momentum, selecting the right combination of in-form players will be crucial for fantasy success.

Player	Role
Shreyas Iyer (C)	Batter
Sanju Samson (WK)	Wicketkeeper
Nitish Rana	Batter
Prabhsimran Singh	Batter
Dhruv Jurel	Batter
Marcus Stoinis	All-Rounder
Glenn Maxwell	All-Rounder
Wanindu Hasaranga	All-Rounder
Arshdeep Singh	Bowler
Yuzvendra Chahal	Bowler
Jofra Archer	Bowler

Captain Choices:

• Shreyas Iyer – In sublime form and batting deep
• Wanindu Hasaranga – Impactful all-rounder who can turn matches

Players to Avoid:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal – Out of form
• Marcus Stoinis (C/Vice-C) – Not contributing enough with bat or ball

Shreyas Iyer emerges as the prime captaincy choice for this clash, given his sensational form that has seen him amass 149 runs at a blistering strike rate of 197 in just two matches. The PBKS skipper has been batting deep and converting starts into big scores, making him a reliable fantasy point accumulator. Wanindu Hasaranga serves as an excellent alternative captain option, offering all-round value with his wicket-taking ability and handy lower-order hitting, particularly after his four-wicket haul in the previous game.

The batting lineup should feature Sanju Samson as the preferred wicketkeeper, with the RR captain showing consistent form and possessing the ability to play match-winning knocks. Nitish Rana deserves selection following his explosive 81 against CSK, while Prabhsimran Singh brings explosive potential at the top of the order for PBKS. Dhruv Jurel completes the batting unit as an exciting young talent who has already shown his finishing capabilities this season.

In the all-rounder department, Glenn Maxwell presents an intriguing pick despite his quiet start to the tournament, given his proven match-winning abilities. The bowling attack should be built around Arshdeep Singh, PBKS’s leading wicket-taker with five scalps, and Jofra Archer, whose raw pace can trouble any batting lineup. Yuzvendra Chahal adds quality spin options to the fantasy mix, capable of turning games with his wicket-taking deliveries.

Fantasy managers should avoid Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has struggled for form early in the tournament, making him a risky selection. While Marcus Stoinis remains in the team as an all-round option, his recent performances don’t justify giving him captaincy or vice-captaincy responsibilities, as he has contributed modestly with both bat and ball so far this season.

Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts

Favourite Team in Today’s Match

Punjab Kings are the favourites today. They are unbeaten, playing their first home game, and boast a stronger batting line-up and a more settled bowling unit. Their depth and current form give them a significant edge over a still-struggling RR side.

Punjab Kings T20 History

Matches	Wins	Losses	NR	Ties
251	116	135	0	0

PBKS have struggled with consistency over the years but are showing signs of turning the corner in 2025.

Rajasthan Royals T20 History

Matches	Wins	Losses	NR	Ties
232	118	108	6	0

RR have always been a dangerous side but haven’t lifted the trophy since their 2008 title run.

Head-to-Head Record

Matches	PBKS Won	RR Won	No Result
28	12	16	0

Rajasthan Royals hold a narrow edge in the head-to-head record, but Punjab Kings have won 3 of the last 5 matches.

Also Check: Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Head to Head in IPL – Records, Team & Players Stats

Team Squads

Punjab Kings Squad

Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Suryansh Shedge, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Praveen Dubey, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Vishnu Vinod, Harpreet Brar, Josh Inglis, Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Aaron Hardie, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kuldeep Sen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash

Rajasthan Royals Squad

Sanju Samson (c & wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kunal Singh Rathore, Kumar Kartikeya, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Kwena Maphaka, Ashok Sharma, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Akash Madhwal

Probable Playing XI

Punjab Kings

1. Prabhsimran Singh (wk)
2. Priyansh Arya
3. Shreyas Iyer (c)
4. Nehal Wadhera
5. Shashank Singh
6. Marcus Stoinis
7. Glenn Maxwell
8. Marco Jansen
9. Arshdeep Singh
10. Yuzvendra Chahal
11. Lockie Ferguson

Rajasthan Royals

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal
2. Sanju Samson (c & wk)
3. Nitish Rana
4. Dhruv Jurel
5. Riyan Parag
6. Shimron Hetmyer
7. Wanindu Hasaranga
8. Jofra Archer
9. Maheesh Theekshana
10. Tushar Deshpande
11. Sandeep Sharma

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Pitch Report

• The pitch at Mullanpur is expected to be batting-friendly with some early help for fast bowlers.
• Spinners could come into play in the second half.
• Average first innings score: 170–180

Ground Records and Statistics – Statistical Overview – Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket St

City	Mullanpur
Country	India
Matches Played	5
Matches Won Batting First	2 (40.00%)
Matches Won Batting Second	3 (60.00%)
Matches Won Winning Toss	2 (40.00%)
Matches Won Losing Toss	3 (60.00%)
Highest Individual Innings	78	S A Yadav (Mumbai Indians)	18/04/2024 v Punjab Kings
Best Bowling	4/29	Arshdeep Singh (Punjab Kings)	09/04/2024 v Sunrisers Hyderabad
Highest Team Innings	192/7 (Mumbai Indians)		18/04/2024 v Punjab Kings
Lowest Team Innings	142 (Punjab Kings)		21/04/2024 v Gujarat Titans
Highest Run Chase Achieved	N/A
Average Runs per Wicket	21.20
Average Runs per Over	8.48
Average Score Batting First	167.40

PBKS vs RR – Weather Report & Match Impact | 5 April 2025

As Punjab Kings (PBKS) gear up to take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) under the lights at the newly built Mullanpur Cricket Stadium, the weather conditions are shaping up perfectly for an uninterrupted match.

Match Impact & Playing Conditions

✅ No Rain Threat – The skies are set to remain crystal clear throughout the evening, ensuring no weather interruptions.

🌡️ Cooler Evening Temperatures – As the match progresses, temperatures will dip to around 25°C, making it pleasant for both players and spectators.

💨 Mild Winds – A steady breeze from the north may offer slight swing assistance to pacers early in the innings but is unlikely to have a major impact.

🏟️ Pitch & Dew Factor – While the day was hot (peaking at 35°C), the evening cool-off could invite a thin layer of dew later in the second innings, possibly favoring the chasing side slightly.

🎯 Toss Strategy – With favorable chasing conditions and potential late dew, the team winning the toss may opt to bowl first.

All signs point to a high-octane, uninterrupted clash between PBKS and RR under Chandigarh’s serene evening sky!

Broadcast Details

• TV: Star Sports Network
• Live Streaming: JioHotstar (App & Website)

RR vs PBKS Score Prediction

• If Punjab Kings Bat First: 173+
• If Rajasthan Royals Bat First: 149+

Also Check For More: Indian Premier League Prediction

Punjab vs Rajasthan Toss Prediction

• Toss Winner: Rajasthan Royals
• Decision: Opt to Bowl First

Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.

FAQ – PBKS vs RR 18th IPL T20

Match Summary

The 18th match of IPL 2025 features Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, with PBKS looking to extend their unbeaten run at their new home in Chandigarh. With in-form players like Shreyas Iyer and Arshdeep Singh, and quality all-rounders like Maxwell and Stoinis, PBKS appear better balanced. Rajasthan Royals will bank on the firepower of Samson, Rana, and Hasaranga, but their inconsistent top order remains a concern. Mullanpur’s pitch promises a good contest between bat and ball, but conditions are expected to favour the home side slightly more. Based on current form and squad depth, Punjab Kings are predicted to win this clash.

Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.

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