Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 on Thursday, May 29, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.
Both teams are chasing their maiden IPL title and have looked like the most balanced units in the league this season. While PBKS finished at the top of the table, RCB surged into second place with a thrilling six-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in their final league match.
Their resurgence was led by Jitesh Sharma, whose 33-ball 85 ensured that they enter the playoffs with momentum on their side.
Punjab Kings, playing their first playoff since 2014, have the added benefit of familiarity with the Mullanpur surface.
Punjab Kings Vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, IPL 2025: Weather Report
Weather is expected to remain mostly favourable for the clash on Thursday. According to forecasts, there is only a 1% chance of rain, with 50% cloud cover likely during the match.
However, in the unlikely event of a washout, Punjab Kings will advance directly to the IPL 2025 final on the basis of finishing at the top of the league table.
There is no reserve day for Qualifier 1, which makes the rain threat particularly worrisome for RCB. For Faf du Plessis and his men, a rain-free evening will be the first wish before they can focus on the game plan.
Punjab Kings Vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, IPL 2025: Pitch Report
The venue has provided high-scoring encounters early in the tournament, with batters enjoying the pace and bounce on offer. Square boundaries are short, which helps stroke players to capitalize, especially during the powerplay and at the death.
However, recent matches have shown that the pitch can also slow down, bringing bowlers into the game if they vary their pace well. For both teams, making the most of the first six overs will be crucial.
Punjab Kings Vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Toss Factor
If the match goes ahead as scheduled, the toss could prove decisive. With dew likely to settle in during the second half, both captains might prefer to bowl first. RCB, in particular, have chased well this season and would be buoyed by their clinical performance in their previous outing.
PBKS, though, have shown confidence batting first and might aim to post a total of around 200 to challenge the deep RCB lineup. The toss will also be influenced by how the pitch behaves in the first few overs바카라early swing and bounce could tempt both sides to use the ball under lights.
