The PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 clash on May 29, 2025, at Mullanpur’s Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium is set to kick off the IPL 2025 playoffs with a bang. Punjab Kings (PBKS), topping the league with 19 points and a +0.372 NRR, take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who surged into Qualifier 1 with a historic 228-run chase (230/4 in 18.4 overs) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 27, 2025.
For IPL Star readers and fantasy cricket enthusiasts, this match promises thrilling IPL 2025 player battles and high-stakes drama. From Virat Kohli facing Arshdeep Singh’s swing to Priyansh Arya challenging Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s pace, this preview dives into the Qualifier 1 key matchups, predicted playing 11s, Mullanpur pitch analysis, and fantasy tips. Let’s get ready for the action!
PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025: Team Form, Playing 11s, and Head-to-Head
Qualifier 1 is a do-or-die battle, with the winner advancing to the IPL 2025 Final on June 3 in Ahmedabad. PBKS, led by Shreyas Iyer, dominated the league stage with a balanced squad featuring Priyansh Arya’s batting and Arshdeep Singh’s bowling. RCB, with 19 points and a +0.301 NRR, rides momentum from their Eliminator heroics, where Jitesh Sharma’s 85* off 33 and a 107-run partnership with Mayank Agarwal sealed their spot.
Predicted Playing 11s
| Team | Predicted Playing 11 |
|---|---|
| Punjab Kings | Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kyle Jamieson, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Arshdeep Singh |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (c, wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Yash Dayal, Nuwan Thushara |
Note: Prabhsimran Singh (PBKS) and Rajat Patidar (RCB) are listed as impact substitutes.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | PBKS | RCB |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 1st (19 points, +0.372 NRR) | 2nd (19 points, +0.301 NRR) |
| Matches Played (2025) | 14 | 14 |
| Head-to-Head (Overall) | 17 wins (32 matches) | 15 wins (32 matches) |
| Head-to-Head (2025) | PBKS won by 5 wickets (Apr 18) | RCB won by 7 wickets (Apr 20) |
| Key Performers | Arshdeep Singh, Priyansh Arya | Virat Kohli, Jitesh Sharma |
Source: ESPN Cricinfo
Recent Form
- PBKS: Secured the top spot with a win over Rajasthan Royals, showcasing Iyer’s leadership and Arya’s explosive batting.
- RCB: Their record-breaking chase (230/4 vs. LSG’s 227/3) highlighted Sharma’s finishing and Kohli’s 54 off 30.
- Fantasy Tip: RCB’s batting depth gives them an edge, but PBKS’s bowling could exploit Mullanpur’s early swing.
3 Epic Player Battles to Watch in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025
The IPL 2025 player battles in Qualifier 1 will shape the match’s outcome. Based on the predicted playing 11s, here are three must-watch matchups, packed with stats and fantasy insights.
1. Virat Kohli vs. Arshdeep Singh
- Why It Matters: Kohli, with 600+ runs in IPL 2025, is RCB’s cornerstone, scoring 73* off 47 in their 7-wicket win over PBKS on April 20, 2025. Arshdeep, PBKS’s leading wicket-taker, poses a threat with his swing.
- Stats: PlayerMetricValueVirat KohliRuns in IPL 2025600+Virat KohliAvg. vs PBKS (career)36Arshdeep SinghWickets in IPL 2025Leading PBKS bowlerArshdeep vs. KohliWickets taken (career)2 in 5 matches
- Analysis: Kohli thrives on Mullanpur’s flat pitch, but Arshdeep’s early swing could challenge his off-stump. X posts show fans buzzing about this duel, with some favoring Arshdeep’s record against Kohli.
- Fantasy Tip: Pick Kohli as a captaincy choice for consistency; Arshdeep is a strong bowler pick for wickets.
2. Priyansh Arya vs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Why It Matters: PBKS’s opener Priyansh Arya has been a revelation, anchoring their batting. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, RCB’s pace spearhead, brings experience and swing to curb Arya’s aggression.
- Stats: PlayerMetricValuePriyansh AryaRuns in IPL 2025~400+Priyansh AryaStrike Rate (2025)~140Bhuvneshwar KumarWickets in IPL 202510+Bhuvneshwar vs. AryaRecent EncountersLimited data, high stakes
- Analysis: Arya’s powerplay dominance faces Bhuvneshwar’s new-ball mastery. This battle could set the tone for PBKS’s innings. Fans on X praise Arya’s form, making this a key matchup.
- Fantasy Tip: Arya is a top-order batting pick; Bhuvneshwar is a differential for early wickets.
3. Jitesh Sharma vs. Yuzvendra Chahal
- Why It Matters: Jitesh Sharma’s explosive 85* off 33 in the Eliminator makes him RCB’s finisher. Yuzvendra Chahal, PBKS’s spin wizard, excels in the middle overs, posing a threat to Sharma’s aggression.
- Stats: PlayerMetricValueJitesh SharmaEliminator Performance85* off 33 ballsJitesh SharmaStrike Rate (2025)~160Yuzvendra ChahalWickets in IPL 202512+Chahal vs. SharmaWickets taken (career)1 in 3 matches
- Analysis: Sharma’s ability to dominate spin clashes with Chahal’s guile. This middle-over battle could swing the game. X posts highlight Sharma’s finishing as RCB’s trump card.
- Fantasy Tip: Sharma is a high-reward pick; Chahal is a safe spinner for wickets.
Mullanpur Pitch Report and Match Conditions
Mullanpur’s Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium is a batting haven, as evidenced by RCB’s 228 chase (230/4 in 18.4 overs) against LSG. Its flat surface and short boundaries favor high scores, often exceeding 200.
Pitch and Venue Stats
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Average 1st Innings Score | 190+ (IPL 2025) |
| Boundary Count | ~20 per match (based on Eliminator) |
| Toss Impact | Batting first preferred (60% win rate) |
| Weather (May 29, 2025) | Clear, 30°C, minimal dew |
Source: Eliminator data and web insights
Tactical Insights
- PBKS: Will rely on Arshdeep and Chahal to exploit early swing and spin, with Arya and Iyer leading the batting.
- RCB: Bank on Kohli and Sharma to chase big totals, with Bhuvneshwar and Suyash Sharma providing bowling bite.
- Fantasy Tip: Prioritize top-order batsmen (Kohli, Arya) due to Mullanpur’s high-scoring nature.
Fantasy Cricket Tips and PBKS vs RCB 2025 Prediction
Qualifier 1 is a fantasy cricket treasure trove. Here’s how to build your Dream11 or My11Circle team, plus a match prediction.
Top Fantasy Picks
| Player | Role | Why Pick? | Avg. Points (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | Batsman | 600+ runs, 54 off 30 in Eliminator | ~70 |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler | Leading PBKS wicket-taker, swing threat | ~50 |
| Priyansh Arya | Batsman | Explosive opener, ~400+ runs | ~55 |
| Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Bowler | Experienced pacer, 10+ wickets | ~45 |
| Jitesh Sharma | Wicketkeeper | 85* off 33, high strike rate | ~60 |
Fantasy Strategy
- Captain/Vice-Captain: Kohli (captain) for consistency; Arshdeep (vice-captain) for wickets on a flat pitch.
- Differential Picks: Priyansh Arya and Yuzvendra Chahal for high-impact, low-ownership points.
- Team Composition: 4 batsmen, 2 all-rounders, 1 wicketkeeper, 4 bowlers for balanced points.
Match Prediction
RCB’s momentum from their 228 chase and Kohli’s form give them a slight edge, but PBKS’s bowling depth (Arshdeep, Chahal) and home advantage at Mullanpur make it close. IPL Star predicts a 60% chance for RCB to win by 5-10 runs or 2 wickets if chasing, with PBKS at 40%. Expect a high-scoring thriller.
Fan Engagement and Social Buzz
X is abuzz with PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 excitement. One fan posted, “Kohli vs. Arshdeep will decide this! RCB’s chase was unreal.” Another predicted PBKS’s bowling could trouble RCB’s middle order. Join the conversation on X and tag IPL Star to share your picks!
Fantasy Tip: Join IPL Star’s fantasy leagues on Dream11 and My11Circle. Visit our Fantasy Cricket Tips for more strategies.
Conclusion: Get Set for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025!
The PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 promises a blockbuster, with IPL 2025 player battles like Kohli vs. Arshdeep, Arya vs. Bhuvneshwar, and Sharma vs. Chahal stealing the show. Mullanpur’s pitch sets the stage for a run-fest, and fantasy players can cash in on top picks. Whether you’re streaming on JioCinema or cheering live, IPL Star is your go-to for updates. Who’s your pick to reach the Final? Comment below and follow IPL Star for live coverage!r has you covered with live updates and insights. Who will advance to the IPL 2025 Final? Share your predictions in the comments and follow IPL Star for real-time coverage!
PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025: Frequently Asked Questions
1. When and where is the PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 match happening?
The PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 match is set for May 29, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium, Mullanpur. The winner advances to the IPL 2025 Final.
2. Who are the predicted playing 11s for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
PBKS’s predicted 11 includes Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer (c), and Arshdeep Singh, while RCB’s line-up features Virat Kohli, Jitesh Sharma (c, wk), and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Check IPL Star for full squads.
3. What are the key player battles in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
The IPL 2025 player battles to watch are Virat Kohli vs. Arshdeep Singh, Priyansh Arya vs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Jitesh Sharma vs. Yuzvendra Chahal. These Qualifier 1 key matchups could shape the game.
4. How does the Mullanpur pitch impact PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
Mullanpur’s batting-friendly pitch, seen in RCB’s 228 chase (230/4 vs. LSG), favors high scores. Expect big totals in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025, benefiting batsmen like Kohli and Arya.
5. What is the PBKS vs RCB 2025 prediction for Qualifier 1?
IPL Star predicts a 60% chance for RCB to win PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025, driven by Kohli’s 600+ runs and their 228 chase momentum. PBKS’s bowling gives them a 40% chance.
6. Who are the top fantasy picks for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
Fantasy picks include Virat Kohli (600+ runs), Arshdeep Singh (wickets), Priyansh Arya (~400+ runs), and Jitesh Sharma (85* off 33). Visit IPL Star for more Qualifier 1 IPL 2025 key players.
7. How can I watch PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 live?
Stream PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025 on JioCinema (free) or watch on Star Sports in India, ESPN+ in the USA, or Sky Sports in the UK, starting at 7:30 PM IST on May 29, 2025.
8. What is the PBKS vs RCB head-to-head record for Qualifier 1 2025?
In 32 IPL matches, PBKS leads with 17 wins to RCB’s 15. In IPL 2025, PBKS won by 5 wickets (April 18), and RCB by 7 wickets (April 20), making Qualifier 1 key matchups intense.
9. Why are player battles critical in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
IPL 2025 player battles like Kohli vs. Arshdeep and Arya vs. Bhuvneshwar drive momentum and fantasy points. These duels on Mullanpur’s flat pitch are pivotal for the match’s outcome.
10. How do I join fantasy leagues for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025?
Join IPL Star’s fantasy leagues on Dream11 or My11Circle for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 2025. Pick stars like Kohli and Arshdeep, and share your teams on X for a chance to win prizes!
Disclaimer: Our PBKSvs RCB Dream11 Prediction tips are based on expert analysis and current player form. Verify final lineups and conditions on JioHotstar before selecting your fantasy team, as performance may vary.