The IPL 2025 playoffs are finally here. The Qualifier 1 will see PBKS take on RCB at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.
Both sides have enjoyed good campaigns this season. PBKS topped the table with 19 points and RCB followed close behind.
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This is a historic occasion for Punjab -- who have returned to the playoffs after 11 long years. With Shreyas Iyer leading, they will have the home advantage in their quest for a maiden IPL title.
On the other hand, RCB will look to reach their first final since 2016. Interestingly - despite playing 35 matches - this is the first time these two teams will meet in a playoff. PBKS hold a slender edge with 18 wins to RCB's 17.
Key player battles and matchups to watch in PBKS vs RCB, Qualifier 1
Let’s take a look at four player battles that could shape the game.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer may be Punjab’s leading run-scorer this season but he has a poor record against Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The swing bowler has dismissed Iyer three times while giving away just 45 runs in 50 balls. This battle up top could tilt the momentum early.
Virat Kohli vs Arshdeep Singh
Virat Kohli has scored eight fifties in just 13 innings this season and looks in vintage touch. He will likely be tested by Arshdeep Singh, who bowls in the powerplay and death overs.
Arshdeep's swing with the new ball could trouble Kohli, though RCB may back him to take charge early.
More: Virat Kohli breaks his own record - Who has scored most 50-plus scores in wins in an IPL season?
Prabhsimran Singh vs Yash Dayal
Prabhsimran Singh has given Punjab quick starts but he will be up against Yash Dayal’s variations. The RCB seamer has been effective with yorkers and slower balls in key phases - exactly the kind of skills needed to contain an opener like Prabhsimran.
Shreyas Iyer vs Krunal Pandya
Iyer has handled spin well this season but Krunal Pandya's left-arm spin poses a different challenge. With his variations, Krunal will look to break Punjab’s rhythm in the middle overs and test Iyer once again.