IPL fantasy tips are the key to unlocking success in fantasy leagues, and with the 18th match of IPL 2025 pitting Punjab Kings (PBKS) against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 5, 2025, cricket fans and fantasy players are in for a treat! Hosted at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, this clash promises high-octane action. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect Dream11 prediction or seeking a detailed PBKS vs RR match preview, this article has you covered with the latest IPL 2025 news, player stats, pitch insights, and winning strategies.
As Punjab Kings aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and Rajasthan Royals look to bounce back, this match is a golden opportunity for fantasy enthusiasts to cash in. Let’s dive into the match details, fantasy tips, and everything you need to dominate your Dream11 team!
Match Overview: PBKS vs RR IPL 2025
The 18th match of IPL 2025 brings together two teams with contrasting fortunes. PBKS, led by Shreyas Iyer, have stormed to the top of the points table with two wins in two games. RR, under Sanju Samson’s captaincy, have struggled with two losses in three matches but showed signs of recovery with a recent victory. This PBKS vs RR match preview highlights why this game could be a turning point for both sides.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | PBKS vs RR, 18th Match, IPL 2025 |
| Date | Saturday, April 5, 2025 |
| Time | 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT) |
| Venue | Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
| Toss Timing | 7:00 PM IST |
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Analysis
The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium is hosting its first IPL match, making it an unknown entity. Based on limited T20 data, the pitch is expected to favor batsmen, with an average first-innings score of around 164-165. Teams might prefer bowling first to gauge the surface, especially with pacers and spinners likely to find assistance as the game progresses.
| Pitch Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 4 |
| Batting First Wins | 0 |
| Bowling First Wins | 2 |
| 1st Innings Avg Score | 164 |
| 2nd Innings Avg Score | 165 |
| Highest Total | 192/7 |
| Lowest Total | 142/10 |
Weather Forecast
The weather in Mullanpur on April 5, 2025, will be clear and warm, with temperatures around 36°C, 7% humidity, and a wind speed of 19.7 km/h. No rain is expected, ensuring a full 40-over contest—perfect for IPL fantasy tips to shine!
PBKS vs RR Head-to-Head Record
Historically, RR hold a slight edge over PBKS in their IPL encounters. Here’s a quick look at their head-to-head stats:
| Team | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| PBKS | 12 |
| RR | 16 |
| Total Matches | 28 |
RR’s dominance makes them a slight favorite, but PBKS’s current form could flip the script in this IPL 2025 news update.
More Details: Official IPL Website www.iplt20.com/
Full Squads
Punjab Kings Squad
- Players: 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
- Players: 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
Predicted Playing XI
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Prabhsimran Singh (wk)
- Priyansh Arya
- Shreyas Iyer (c)
- Nehal Wadhera
- Shashank Singh
- Marcus Stoinis
- Glenn Maxwell
- Suryansh Shedge
- Marco Jansen
- Lockie Ferguson
- Arshdeep Singh / Yuzvendra Chahal
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Sanju Samson (c & wk)
- Nitish Rana
- Riyan Parag
- Dhruv Jurel
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Jofra Archer
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Sandeep Sharma
- Tushar Deshpande
Top Dream11 Picks and Fantasy Tips
Crafting a winning Dream11 team requires smart IPL fantasy tips. Here’s a breakdown of key players and strategies for PBKS vs RR.
Key Players to Watch with Stats
| Player | Team | Role | Recent Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shreyas Iyer | PBKS | Batsman (C) | 52*, 97* |
| Arshdeep Singh | PBKS | Bowler | 3W, 2W |
| Glenn Maxwell | PBKS | All-Rounder | 1W, 1W |
| Sanju Samson | RR | Wicketkeeper (C) | 20, 13, 66 |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | RR | Batsman | 4, 29, 1 |
| Jofra Archer | RR | Bowler | 1W, 0W, 0W |
IPL Fantasy Tips and Strategies
- Prioritize Top-Order Batsmen: With the pitch likely to favor batting, players like Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson are must-haves for your Dream11 prediction.
- Pick Death-Over Specialists: Arshdeep Singh and Jofra Archer excel in the final overs, making them prime picks.
- All-Rounders Are Gold: Glenn Maxwell and Wanindu Hasaranga can contribute with both bat and ball—perfect for IPL match fantasy tips.
- Wicketkeeper Choice: Sanju Samson’s consistency trumps Prabhsimran Singh for fantasy points.
- Balance Pace and Spin: The pitch supports both, so mix Arshdeep with Hasaranga or Chahal.
Dream11 Prediction: PBKS vs RR Fantasy Team
Here’s a suggested Dream11 team for the PBKS vs RR match:
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Sanju Samson (C) | RR |
| Batsmen | Shreyas Iyer (VC) | PBKS |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | RR | |
| Priyansh Arya | PBKS | |
| All-Rounders | Glenn Maxwell | PBKS |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | RR | |
| Marcus Stoinis | PBKS | |
| Bowlers | Arshdeep Singh | PBKS |
| Jofra Archer | RR | |
| Lockie Ferguson | PBKS | |
| Maheesh Theekshana | RR |
Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Sanju Samson (consistent run-scorer and wicketkeeper points)
- Vice-Captain: Shreyas Iyer (in red-hot form with the bat)
Small League Must Picks
- PBKS: Shreyas Iyer (299 points), Arshdeep Singh (174 points)
- RR: Dhruv Jurel (220 points), Nitish Rana (208 points)
Grand League Risky Picks
- PBKS: Suryansh Shedge (8 points), Lockie Ferguson (44 points)
- RR: Sandeep Sharma (69 points), Maheesh Theekshana (88 points)
Avoid Having These Players
- Suryansh Shedge (PBKS): Limited impact so far.
- Sandeep Sharma (RR): Struggling for wickets this season.
Injury Updates and Unavailability
- PBKS: No reported injuries as of April 5, 2025.
- RR: No injury concerns; Sanju Samson is back to full fitness.
Toss Prediction and Match Winner Prediction
Who Will Win the Toss Today?
Experts predict PBKS will win the toss and opt to bat first, leveraging their strong batting lineup.
Who Will Win the Match?
Despite PBKS’s unbeaten run, RR’s balanced squad gives them a slight edge. Rajasthan Royals are favored to win, making this a critical IPL 2025 news update for fantasy players.
Queries Answered
Who Is Better, PBKS or RR?
RR have a historical edge (16-12), but PBKS’s current form makes this a close call.
Who Is the Captain?
- PBKS: Shreyas Iyer
- RR: Sanju Samson
Who Will Win the Match?
RR are slight favorites due to their all-round strength.
Who Will Be the Top Performer?
Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) and Sanju Samson (RR) are top contenders.
Who Will Win the Toss?
PBKS are predicted to win the toss.
Who Will Be Player of the Match?
Shreyas Iyer’s form makes him a strong candidate.
Where to Watch PBKS vs RR?
Catch the live action on JioHotstar or Star Sports Network.
What Is the Timing?
The match starts at 7:30 PM IST on April 5, 2025.
What Is the Toss Timing?
The toss is scheduled for 7:00 PM IST.
Ground Stats: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium
| Stat | Record |
|---|---|
| Highest Total | 192/7 |
| Lowest Total | 142/10 |
| Highest Chased | 174/9 |
| Lowest Defended | 182/9 |
Conclusion: Ace Your Fantasy Game!
The PBKS vs RR clash in IPL 2025 is set to be a thriller, and with these IPL fantasy tips, you’re ready to build a winning Dream11 team. RR might have the upper hand, but PBKS’s form can’t be ignored. Who’s in your fantasy lineup? Drop your predictions in the comments below and join the “IPL Star” community for daily IPL match fantasy tips and updates. Subscribe now for more IPL 2025 news and fantasy insights!
Full IPL 2025 Schedule: https://iplstar.in/ipl-2025-full-schedule-match-list-format-venues-timings-live-streaming-teams-and-everything-you-want-to-know/
FAQs: PBKS vs RR Match 18 – IPL 2025 Fantasy Tips and Predictions
1. What are the best IPL fantasy tips for PBKS vs RR Match 18 in IPL 2025?
The best IPL fantasy tips for PBKS vs RR include picking top-order batsmen like Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson, who are in great form, and death-over bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Jofra Archer for wickets. All-rounders such as Glenn Maxwell and Wanindu Hasaranga are also must-haves for a balanced Dream11 prediction, as they contribute with both bat and ball.
2. Where can I watch the PBKS vs RR match in IPL 2025?
You can watch the PBKS vs RR match live on JioHotstar for streaming or tune into the Star Sports Network for TV broadcast. This IPL 2025 news ensures you don’t miss the action on April 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST.
3. What is the Dream11 prediction for PBKS vs RR Match 18?
Our Dream11 prediction for PBKS vs RR features Sanju Samson as captain, Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain, and a mix of key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Glenn Maxwell, and Arshdeep Singh. Check the full team in the article for IPL fantasy tips to maximize your points in this PBKS vs RR match preview.
4. Who will win the PBKS vs RR match in IPL 2025?
Rajasthan Royals (RR) are slight favorites to win Match 18 due to their balanced squad and historical edge (16-12) over Punjab Kings (PBKS). However, PBKS’s current unbeaten streak makes this a close contest, as highlighted in our IPL 2025 news analysis.
5. What are the pitch conditions for PBKS vs RR at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium?
The pitch in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, is expected to favor batsmen with an average first-innings score of 164-165. It’s a fresh IPL venue, so teams might bowl first to assess it, making IPL fantasy tips focused on top-order batsmen and versatile bowlers crucial.
6. Who are the key players to watch in the PBKS vs RR match preview?
Key players include Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) with 52* and 97* in recent games, Arshdeep Singh (PBKS) with 5 wickets in 2 matches, Sanju Samson (RR) with consistent scores, and Jofra Archer (RR) for his pace. These players are vital for your Dream11 prediction and IPL fantasy tips.
7. What is the toss timing for PBKS vs RR Match 18?
The toss for PBKS vs RR is scheduled at 7:00 PM IST on April 5, 2025. Experts predict PBKS might win the toss and opt to bat, a key factor in your IPL match fantasy tips.
8. Who is the captain of PBKS and RR in IPL 2025?
Shreyas Iyer leads Punjab Kings (PBKS), while Sanju Samson captains Rajasthan Royals (RR). Both are top picks for IPL fantasy tips due to their leadership and performance.
9. What are the timings for the PBKS vs RR match in IPL 2025?
The match starts at 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT) on April 5, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. Plan your IPL fantasy tips and Dream11 team accordingly!
10. Who will be the top performer in PBKS vs RR Match 18?
Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) and Sanju Samson (RR) are strong contenders to be the top performers, given their recent form and captaincy roles. They’re excellent captaincy choices in your Dream11 prediction.
11. Who will win the toss in PBKS vs RR Match 18?
Based on expert analysis, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are predicted to win the toss and likely choose to bat first, leveraging their batting strength—an essential IPL 2025 news update for fantasy players.
12. What is the head-to-head record between PBKS and RR?
In 28 IPL matches, RR have won 16, while PBKS have secured 12 victories. This PBKS vs RR match preview shows RR’s slight historical advantage.
13. Which players should I avoid in my Dream11 team for PBKS vs RR?
Avoid Suryansh Shedge (PBKS) and Sandeep Sharma (RR) due to their low fantasy points this season. Focus on in-form players for better IPL fantasy tips.
14. Where can I find live streaming for PBKS vs RR Match 18?
Live streaming is available on JioHotstar, with TV coverage on Star Sports Network. Stay updated with IPL 2025 news on “IPL Star” for more insights.
15. What are the best captain and vice-captain choices for Dream11 in PBKS vs RR?
Sanju Samson (RR) is a top captain pick for his consistency, while Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) is ideal as vice-captain due to his explosive form. These IPL fantasy tips can boost your Dream11 prediction.