Rajasthan Royals (RR) executed a brilliant all-round display to defeat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 50 runs in Match 18 of IPL 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur.

Rajasthan Royals Innings

With the option to bowl first, PBKS confronted a strong RR batting lineup, and they posted a mammoth 205/4, the highest IPL score at Mullanpur. Yashasvi Jaiswal was the anchor for RR, scoring a painstakingly slow 67 that marked his slowest fifty in IPL. Jaiswal did a great job to keep RR afloat on a pitch that offered movement early on—before keeper Sanju Samson provided a late cover for Jaiswal but fell victim to Lockie Ferguson, who was the pick of the PBKS bowling attack with figures of 2/37.

RR batted their way through the middle overs before eventually exploding towards the end. Riyan Parag, batting in the latter part of the innings in a precarious position, contributed an explosive 43* from 27, while Dhruv Jurel provided a truly explosive cameo—highlighted by a six over Marcus Stoinis's head and a four off Stoinis to finish off the innings. RR posted a daunting target of 205 by scoring 19 runs in the last over. PBKS was in trouble in the depth of their bowling. 

A spot on bowling performance by RR in Mullanpur 🎯

Scorecard: https://t.co/IvwL3fSg7F #PBKSvRR #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/zpuGWW71eb

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) April 5, 2025

Also Read: Watch: Rajasthan Royals share emotional video tributing Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of their clash against Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings Innings

In response, PBKS cracked early. Jofra Archer removed Priyansh Arya and Shreyas Iyer in the first over lbw, leaving PBKS seemingly out of the game at 8/2. PBKS continued to stumble when Marcus Stoinis and Prabhsimran Singh fell cheaply. Nehal Wadhera toiled away for PBKS with a fighting knock of 62 off 41 but was eventually dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga before Glenn Maxwell followed suit for a golden duck to Maheesh, ending hopes of a comeback.

RR’s spin duo and Archer’s pace sealed the deal as PBKS were restricted to 155/9, falling well short of the target.

Shuru se ant tak, ek hi bol - Halla Bol! 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/bxnEo1OT3X

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 5, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025: Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Match Highlights

Post-Match Reactions - PBKS vs RR

• Sanju Samson (Captain of RR): "Thanks a lot. I feel the way we began in the power play with the bat, we were short by some runs, but the way everyone displayed batsmanship was outstanding. I knew that they would also have some problems in the 2nd innings. 205 was a nice score."
  Well, I said that too earlier. We have a very strong batting lineup; they are young in years but are full of potential. They have played so many matches for their nation. I feel we controlled the game quite well.
  

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• Riyan Parag (RR): "That was the plan. Scoring runs in power play was crucial for us. Jaiswal did that job well." The conversation during the strategic break was for me to continue. Sanju Samson is an excellent leader. I noticed Lockie walking in to bat. His strike rate was 147, as I noticed on the big screen. So I felt Jofra could be needed with a long on. Then, I returned, but Jofra realized at a moment's notice that there were only 3 within the 30-yard circle and requested me to rush towards the circle.
  
• Jofra Archer (Player of the Match): "At the start of the tournament I wasn't very pleased but above all happy to contribute to the team victory."
  When you get days like these, you must cash in because you can have bad days too.
  [On expectations] You have to realize that you can be lucky in some situations and at times the batter can outplay you. Nobody is working any harder. Every day is not going to be a good day. But on the good days you must make the most of it because the bad day is coming up next."

W Clasicoooooo! 💗 pic.twitter.com/RqPzQwWKWt

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 5, 2025

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Match Scorecard

Rajasthan Royals Innings – 205/4 (20 Overs)

Punjab Kings Innings – 155/9 (20 Overs)

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is returning with exciting cricket action, which is all set to begin on March 22, 2025. This season holds the promise of exciting matches, fierce rivalries, and memorable performances by the best cricketers in the world. Fans globally are eagerly waiting to watch and support their favourite teams. From watching television to streaming online, here is a complete guide to IPL 2025 

PBKS vs RR Match Details - IPL 2025

•  Teams: PBKS vs RR
• Date: 5th April, 2025
• Time: 07:30 pm.
• Venue: Chandigarh

PBKS vs RR Live Streaming  TV Broadcast by Country

ALSO READ:IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR Prediction– Match 18, Who will win today?

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Predicted Playing XI

Punjab Kings Playing XI

Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shegde, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal,Impact Player: Nehal Wadhera

Rajasthan Royals Playing XI

Sanju Samson, Yashashvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Nitish Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Wanindu Hasarnga, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma,Impact Player: Shubham Dubey

Punjab Kings (PBKS) will play against  Rajasthan Royals(RR) in the eighteenth match of IPL 2025 at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Punjab. RR ended in third in the league before losing to SRH in Qualifier 2, while Punjab Kings (PBKS) just missed the playoffs.

Impact Players: Punjab Kings (PBKS)

 Suryansh Shegde: An all-rounder has played 9 T20 matches, As a batter, they have scored 131 runs in 9 innings at a good strike rate of 251.92 and an average of 43.67. In Bowling, he took 8 wickets in 9 innings, with their best performance being 2/11. 

 Nehal Wadhera: A left-handed batter who played 20 IPL matches and batted in 16 innings, scoring 350 runs at a strike rate of 140.00 and an average of 23.33. Their ability to find the boundary often makes them a valuable asset to the team, likely playing a middle-order role. In the 13 match against LSG in IPL 2025, He scored quick fire knock 43 runs in 25 balls.

Vyshak Vijaykumar:  The last time he played for RCB, an extra bowling option was in the second innings. In the last match against GT, he bowled 4 overs conceding 28 runs without any wicket.

Priyansh Arya: A Promising all-rounder has played 28 T20 matches, batting in all 28 innings and scoring 1,181 runs at an impressive strike rate of 181.69 and an average of 45.42. His powerful hitting helps the second innings if batting conditions are good and he can bowl some magical spin if the team needs it. Last time he played against LSG he scored 8 runs in 9 balls.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Punjab Kings Playing 11 vs Rajasthan Royals

Impact Players: Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Tushar Deshpande: He had a good season with CSK last year and can be a useful bowling option in the second innings if the pitch helps pacers. He took 17 wickets in 13 matches. In the second match against SRH in IPL 2025, he bowled 4 overs and took 3 wickets, and had an economy of 11.00.

Shubham Dubey: A left-handed batter who can add firepower in the final overs or step in if SRH loses early wickets. In the second match against KKR in IPL 2025, He scored just 9 runs in 13 balls.

 
Yudhvir Singh Charak: A fast bowler who can consistently hit speeds over 145 kph. He can be a good impact player in the second innings if SRH bats first.

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs. Rajasthan Royals (RR) match is set to take place on April 5, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur. This highly anticipated clash will be a key encounter as both teams look to gain momentum in the tournament.

Match Details:

• Date: April 05, 2025
• Time: 07:30 PM IST
• Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur
• Win % Batting First: 20%
• Win % Bowling First: 80%

Also read: CSK vs DC : Match 17 Weather and Pitch report IPL 2025

Weather and Pitch Conditions:

Weather:

• The weather is expected to be pleasant and clear, with temperatures around 26-35°C.
• Humidity: 45%
• Rain Probability: No rain is expected, ensuring an uninterrupted match.
• A light breeze may assist swing bowlers in the early overs.

Pitch:

• The Mullanpur pitch is known for its true bounce and pace, making it a batting-friendly surface.
• Fast bowlers enjoy good carry and movement under lights.
• Spinners might find some grip as the match progresses, but the pitch remains favorable for stroke play.
• Average Score Batting First in the Last Season: 178
• Average Score Batting Second in the Last Season: 185
• Wins Batting First in the Last Five Games: 2
• Wins Batting Second in the Last Five Games: 3

Also read: LSG VS MI : Match 16 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

Venue Records: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur

• Highest Team Total: 240/5 by Chennai Super Kings against Kings XI Punjab in 2008.
• Lowest Team Total: 67 all out by Delhi Daredevils against Kings XI Punjab in 2017.
• Average First Innings Score: Approximately 175 runs.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will start with a big bash. The opening ceremony of IPL 18 will be held on April 5, 2025, at New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh (Mullanpur). The ceremony will have a special performance by famous singer Jasmine Sandlas.

IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR – Player Battles to Watch Out For

Match Details – IPL 2025

• Match: Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Rajasthan Royals (RR)
• Date: 5th April 2025 (Saturday)
• Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Mullanpur
• Live Streaming: JioStar & Star Sports Network

Thrilling Performance by Jasmine Sandlas
Jasmine Sandlas, with her dynamic singing and strong voice, will thrill the crowd at the IPL 18 opening ceremony. Her Punjabi music infused with contemporary beats has gained her a lot of fans. This act is likely to bring a lively touch to the event.
A Grand Farewell for Cricket Fans
The IPL is among the largest cricket tournaments globally, and its opening ceremony is always a big thing. The show will feature music, dance, and special acts to usher in another thrilling season of cricket. Cricket fans all over the country and worldwide will watch the grand show on television.
New PCA Stadium in Focus
The location of the opening ceremony, New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, is a recently constructed stadium with the capacity to host big cricket tournaments. This will be among the first major performances at the stadium, hence a milestone moment for the city.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR Prediction– Match 18, Who will win today

When and Where to Watch
The ceremony will start at 6:30 PM IST on April 5, 2025. The fans who are present at the match will get to see the performance live, while others can view it on TV or online streaming websites.

IPL 2025 Match 18 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will be played on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium(New Chandigarh), Mullanpur, Mohali.

Head-to-Head Record

• Total Matches Played: 28
• Punjab Kings Wins: 12
• Rajasthan Royals Wins: 16

Also Read: IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR – New Chandigarh stadium stats and status preview

Notable Matches in PBKS vs RR History:

IPL 2024 - April 13, 2024 

• PBKS: 147/8 (20 overs)
• RR: 152/7 (19.5 overs)
• Result: Rajasthan Royals win by 3 wickets

It was a close encounter, played at Mullanpur. PBKS occupied the crease only to put up 148 on board, RR chased down 148 in the last over with the last ball being a six.

2. IPL 2024 - May 15, 2024 (Punjab Kings win by 5 wickets)

• RR: 144/9 (20 overs)
• PBKS: 145/5 (18.3 overs)
• Result: Punjab Kings win by 5 wickets

With a disciplined bowling attack, PBKS restricted RR to a below-par score. PBKS chased down the runs with ease from the middle order, winning the game with 9 balles left in the innings.

3. IPL 2023 - April 5, 2023 

• PBKS: 187/5 (20 overs)
• RR: 189/6 (19.3 overs)
• Result: Rajasthan Royals win by 4 wickets

PBKS had a lovely score, through a lightning half century, RR batters did well upfront before their finisher closed the game for them in the final over.

Also Read: IPL 2025: CSK vs DC - A Head to Head breakdown

4. IPL 2022 - May 7, 2022 

• PBKS: 189/4 (20 overs)
• RR: 178/8 (20 overs)
• Result: Punjab Kings win by 11 runs

PBKS did brilliantly for death over batting, setting RR with a strong target. Then, their up-to-proper bowling execution plans with their bowling, eventually restricting RR's middle order, even winning by 11 runs.

As PBKS and RR gear up to go head-to-head, both teams will be looking to build on their recent correspondences. PBKS will try to change their record against RR, while RR will attempt to extend their dominance. Regardless, fans can expect another exciting encounter in this old IPL rivalary.

IPL 2025 Match 18 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will be played on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium(New Chandigarh), Mullanpur, Mohali. In this mid-season contest, we will witness a rejuvenated PBKS, guided by Shreyas Iyer, making a bid for the win against RR, led by Sanju Samson, in a match that is very important for both teams playing 8. PBKS is hoping to take advantage of the new players and the home ground, while RR is looking forward to their fantastic record against PBKS and to securing another win.

 Stadium Stats and Records

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium is a new IPL arena with only a total of 4 matches played there. The pitch shows good characteristics for batters, sharing the score between spinners and pacers. It's difficult for the bowlers after a few overs.

• Total IPL Matches Hosted: 4
• Matches Won Batting First: 3
• Matches Won Batting Second: 1
• Highest Team Total: 192/7 (MI vs PBKS, 2024)
• Lowest Team Total: 147/8 (PBKS vs RR, 2024)
• Highest Individual Score: 78 by Suryakumar Yadav (MI, 2024)
• Average 1st Innings: 167
• Average 2nd Innings: 167
• Highest Chased: 177/6 (PBKS vs GT)
• Best Bowling Figures: 4/29 by Arshdeep Singh (PBKS, 2024)

Also Read: IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR - A Head to Head breakdown

Weather and Pitch Report

The climate of Mohali will follow the same pattern every day, with the exception of today when the region will have clear skies and no rain. The highest temperatures are expected to be 29-30°C, after which the readings will drop down to between 25-27°C. The relatively low humidity levels (40-50%) will allow the comfortable period to be extended without becoming too hot. During the early pace and bounce, the wickets have some helpful spinners. As highly fizzy beverages oxidise, they lose flavour.

PBKS vs RR: Match Preview

PBKS, under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, has a blast in their powerhouse batsmen and speedster brigade, which is expected to pose a threat to RR. Their recent performances at home suggest a strong batting display, with players capable of scoring big. But it's probably the only solid thing about RR. This is the new and improved way to write balanced and effective content spins and The team features a mix of experienced players and exciting young talents, including Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old prodigy making waves in the cricketing world. RR’s aggressive approach with both bat and ball makes them a dangerous opponent for any team.

Also Read: IPL 2025: CSK vs DC – Chepauk stadium stats and status preview

Given a high-scoring pitch and dew being able to help the bowling side, a very thrilling, high-scoring game can be expected, where the result of the death overs may become the clincher.

IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR – Player Battles to Watch Out For

Match Details – IPL 2025

• Match: Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Rajasthan Royals (RR)
• Date: 5th April 2025 (Saturday)
• Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Mullanpur
• Live Streaming: JioStar & Star Sports Network

Key Player Duels

Shreyas Iyer vs. Jofra Archer
PBKS batsman Shreyas Iyer will hold the innings together, but RR's pace ace Jofra Archer will look to get him out early with sheer pace and bounce.
Glenn Maxwell vs. Wanindu Hasaranga
Destructive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell will be PBKS's key middle-order launchpad, but RR's spin magician Wanindu Hasaranga will look to stifle him with incisive turn.
Sanju Samson vs. Lockie Ferguson
RR skipper Sanju Samson will target to score faster during the middle overs, but PBKS quick Lockie Ferguson will try and intimidate him with pace alone.
Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Arshdeep Singh
RR opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal will challenge the bowlers in the powerplay, but PBKS bowler Arshdeep Singh will aim to get movement for the new ball and have him caught early.

Marcus Stoinis vs. Tushar Deshpande
PBKS all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will aim to plunder the death overs for maximum hits, while RR's Tushar Deshpande will attempt to deliver yorkers and slower balls well.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025: PBKS vs RR Prediction– Match 18, Who will win today?

Nitish Rana vs. Yuzvendra Chahal
RR's Nitish Rana is capable of finding his gears in the middle overs, but PBKS leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal will attempt to use his variations to outsmart him.

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Predicted Playing XI

Punjab Kings Playing XI

Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shegde, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal,Impact Player: Nehal Wadhera

Rajasthan Royals Playing XI

Sanju Samson, Yashashvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Nitish Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Wanindu Hasarnga, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma,Impact Player: Shubham Dubey

Punjab are off to a solid start this season. Shreyas Iyer looks good and the batting line-up has found its strength well. The bowling isn't far behind with nice balance and skill keeping them going. They now head into an old, underrated and unnoticed rivalry. Rajasthan Royals, have often had some close games with Punjab and are coming in after getting their first win. Their batting depth remains a question as does the leadership, but that should be a matter solved with Sanju Samson back as skipper and wicket-keeper. He was used only as a batter with a finger injury restricting his ability to keep and now he is back to play a full-fledged role, allowing Rajasthan to be a little more flexible with how they use their impact player as well.

PBKS vs RR Match Details

Date: April 5th, 2025

Time:  7:30 PM IST

Venue: Mullanpur

PBKS vs RR Weather Report

Clear weather and a nice evening is expected for the game.

See Also: PBKS vs RR Dream XI Prediction

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Pitch Report

Average Score Batting First in the last Season: 167

Average Score Batting Second in the last Season: 168

Wins Batting First in the last Five games: 2

Wins Batting Second in the last Five games: 3

Mullanpur is generally a slower track which gives the bowlers some support. There will be spin but batting second remains a better choice due to the nature of the game.

See Also: CSK struggle to stay up to date in T20 Cricket

LSG vs MI Head to Head

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Predicted Playing XI

Punjab Kings Playing XI

Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shegde, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Impact Player: Nehal Wadhera

Rajasthan Royals Playing XI

Sanju Samson, Yashashvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Nitish Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Wanindu Hasarnga, Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma

Impact Player: Shubham Dubey

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Players to Watch

Nitish Rana

Nitish Rana has found himself in form this season. He got going against Chennai on a spinning track and Mullanpur could well suit his style too. He has some more pace to contend with though but will be eager to face the spinners when they come on.

Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer is turning things around in his own style. He has led from the front and looks eager to compete for a number three spot in T20Is. His intent has been incredible and he is batting with a selfless nature to ensure his side gets over the line.

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Match Tips

Rajasthan's batting depth remains a concern while Punjab are looking really good because of the same batting depth. They are in pretty good form as well and unless Nitish Rana and co can get going against the spin of Punjab it will be tough for the Royals to see themselves get past the Kings here. 

Match Prediction: Punjab Kings Will Win the Match

PBKS vs RR Match Preview

The 18th IPL 2025 match between the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and the Rajasthan Royals (RR) happens for April 5, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Punjab Kings have had a strong start to their IPL 2025 campaign, winning two straight games. In their first match against the Gujarat Titans on March 25, 2025, they won by 11 runs after scoring 243/5. The Rajasthan Royals had an up-and-down start to the IPL 2025, winning one of their first three matches. They began the season with a high-scoring match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

PBKS vs RR Match Details 

Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – 18th Match, IPL 2025

Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium, Chandigarh

Date & Time: 05th April 2025 at 07:30 PM IST

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

PBKS vs RR Venue Stats

PBKS vs RR Pitch Report

The pitch at Chandigarh is well-known for being a wicket that is conducive to batting. The new ball should be offered with good bounce and carry. The spinners might benefit from the dryness.

PBKS vs RR Weather Report

The temperature will be extremely hot and humid. With some showers expected in Chandigarh, the season opener is in danger of rain.  

PBKS vs RR Last Five Matches

PBKS vs RR Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: NZ vs PAK Dream11 Prediction 3rd ODI Match

PBKS vs RR Probable Playing XIs:

Punjab Kings Probable Playing XIs

Rajasthan Royals Probable Playing XIs

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande (Impact Player)

Topmost Picks for PBKS vs RR Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Punjab Kings

• Shreyas Iyer – Shreyas Iyer, PBKS' skipper, will be the batter to watch out for. Shreyas Iyer scored two unbeaten half-centuries (97* and 52*) in the first two games, hitting 13 sixes.
• Arshdeep Singh –  Arshdeep Singh has taken 5 wickets in the two games. His economy is slightly lower than 10.

Top Picks – Rajasthan Royals

• Sanju Samson – Sanju Samson has dominated Punjab Kings by scoring 39 runs off 22 balls at a burning strike rate of 177.27 lacking being dismissed, smashing four fours and two sixes.
• Wanindu Hasaranga –  Wanindu Hasaranga has taken five wickets in two games. He took four wickets in the last game.

PBKS vs RR Probable Winners:

The Punjab Kings have appeared more confident than the Rajasthan Royals this season. The Rajasthan Royals' bowlers have always been a strength, but this season they have struggled for consistency. Shreyas Iyer is on fire, with a strike rate of 206.94. PBKS' top-order has a combined strike rate of 190. Considering the team combination, Punjab Kings is expected to win this match.