The excitement in IPL 2025 has reached its peak! Today, Thursday, May 29, we witness the highly anticipated PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
This thrilling playoff match features the Punjab Kings (PBKS) taking on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Both teams are desperately searching for their first-ever IPL title. This game offers a golden chance to secure a direct spot in the grand final, scheduled for June 3 in Ahmedabad.
Our detailed look into PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 will cover key stats, head-to-head records, and other important facts that set the stage for this high-stakes encounter. Understanding these details is essential for fans and analysts alike as we head into the IPL 2025 playoffs. This is a crucial deep dive into all aspects of PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
The Road to PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: How They Got Here
Both Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have had impressive journeys to reach PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1. They finished as the top two teams in the league stage, highlighting their consistent performances throughout IPL 2025.
Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, have adopted a fearless approach to their cricket this season. They finished at the top of the points table, showcasing their dominance with a powerful batting lineup and effective bowling strategies. In their final league game, PBKS delivered a strong performance against Mumbai Indians, securing a 7-wicket victory. Their batters, Priyansh Arya and Josh Inglis, played crucial half-centuries, while bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen were impactful. This strong finish sets them up well for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, have also shown great resilience. They secured a top-two finish by winning crucial matches in the latter half of the tournament. In their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants, RCB successfully chased down a big target of 228. Virat Kohli scored a vital fifty, and Jitesh Sharma played an incredible knock of 85* off just 33 balls. This win demonstrated their ability to perform under immense pressure and chase down big totals, a key factor in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
Interestingly, PBKS and RCB had a very similar record in the first six matches of their season. They finished tied on 17 points, with PBKS having a slightly better net run rate due to their aggressive batting. This close race throughout the league stage sets up an even more intense PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Match Details
Here are the important details for this playoff blockbuster, vital for anyone following PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1:
- Match: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Qualifier 1, IPL 2025
- Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh
- Date & Time (IST): Thursday, May 29, 2025, 7:30 PM
- Live Broadcast and Streaming: JioStar Network Channels, JioHotstar (App & Website)
Knowing these specifics helps in understanding the context of this pivotal PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 match, including potential weather conditions and broadcast times.
Mullanpur Stadium Pitch Report for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1
The pitch conditions at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur will play a crucial role in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1. This is Punjab’s new home fortress, and understanding its nature is vital.
The surface here generally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. The pitch is usually true and favors stroke play early on, allowing batters to hit through the line. A quick outfield adds value to good shots, meaning batters can get good returns for their efforts. This makes it an exciting prospect for scoring big runs in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
As the innings progresses, especially in the second half of the match, spinners tend to become more effective. This suggests that middle-over spinners could play a vital role, making them valuable picks for fantasy teams and strategic weapons for captains.
Let’s look at the detailed statistics from this venue, which are crucial for our PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 analysis:
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Overall IPL Records at Mullanpur (since 2023):
- Matches: 16
- Batting First Won: 10
- Batting Second Won: 6
- Average 1st Innings Score: 173/6 (Run rate – 8.65)
- Lowest Total Defended: 111 (This season)
- Highest Target Chased: 175
- 200+ Totals (excluding shortened matches): Only 2 times in 14 matches
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Pace vs Spin at Mullanpur (since 2023):
- Pace:
- Overs % – 62%
- Wickets – 142
- Average – 21.4
- Economy – 8.7
- Spin:
- Overs % – 38%
- Wickets – 51
- Average – 33
- Economy – 7.9
- Pace:
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Scores and Outcomes:
- If 1st Innings Score is 170 or above: The team batting first won 9 out of 10 matches.
- If 1st Innings Score is Less Than 170: The team batting second won all 5 matches.
In IPL 2025, Mullanpur hosted four matches in the league stage. Three of these matches were won by teams batting first. The average first-innings score during this season was 183. This indicates a slight shift towards batting first this season at this venue, especially for high-scoring games.
The most recent IPL clash at Mullanpur was indeed between PBKS and RCB themselves (Match 37 of IPL 2025). In that game, PBKS batted first and scored 157 for 6. RCB successfully chased this target with 7 wickets and 7 balls to spare. This head-to-head at the venue is a crucial piece of the PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 puzzle, showing that chasing is possible even if challenging.
PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Head-to-Head Records
The head-to-head record between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru is one of the closest rivalries in IPL history. This parity adds an extra layer of excitement to PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
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Overall Head-to-Head (Since 2008):
- Matches Played: 35
- Won by Punjab Kings: 18
- Won by Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 17
- Tied: 00
- No Result: 00
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Head-to-Head in IPL 2025:
- The teams met twice in the league phase of IPL 2025, winning one game each.
- PBKS won a rain-shortened match in Bengaluru, showcasing their ability to adapt to conditions.
- RCB avenged that defeat in Mullanpur, winning by 7 wickets. This specific result at the Qualifier 1 venue is highly significant.
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Head-to-Head at New PCA Stadium, Mullanpur:
- Matches Played: 1
- PBKS Won: 0
- RCB Won: 1
- Last Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by 7 Wickets (April, 2025)
This will be the first time these two fierce rivals meet in an IPL playoff match. Both teams have endured long waits to reach this stage, with PBKS last making the final in 2014 and RCB in 2016. The stakes couldn’t be higher for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1, adding immense pressure to both sides.
Key Player Stats and Records for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1
Individual performances often define big matches, and PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 will be no different. Here are some key player stats and records that could impact the game:
Most Runs in PBKS vs RCB matches (Overall IPL History):
- Virat Kohli (RCB): 1104 runs in 34 innings (Avg: 36.80, SR: 133.49, HS: 113) – The undisputed king of this clash, showing remarkable consistency against PBKS.
- Chris Gayle (PBKS/RCB): 873 runs in 17 innings (Avg: 54.56, SR: 169.18, HS: 117) – A former player who dominated this fixture.
- AB de Villiers (RCB): 718 runs in 21 innings (Avg: 47.86, SR: 159.91, HS: 89*) – Another RCB legend with a strong record.
Most Wickets in PBKS vs RCB matches (Overall IPL History):
- Yuzvendra Chahal (RCB/PBKS): 28 wickets in 18 matches (Econ: 7.74, Avg: 16.92, BBI: 4/25) – A significant threat for both teams in the past.
- Harshal Patel (PBKS/RCB): 16 wickets in 11 matches (Econ: 9.91, Avg: 23.75, BBI: 4/34) – Known for his wicket-taking abilities.
- Sandeep Sharma (PBKS): 16 wickets in 10 matches (Econ: 8.33, Avg: 18.75, BBI: 3/15) – A consistent performer for PBKS against RCB.
Special Tactical Insights for PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1
Beyond general stats, there are specific tactical advantages and weaknesses that will influence PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1:
1. Punjab’s Explosive Top-Order Could Set the Tone Early: PBKS’ top three batters have been exceptional. They average 36.35 with a blazing strike rate of 177.02—the best in IPL 2025 among all teams. Expect fireworks if openers like Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya get going in the powerplay. Their aggressive intent can put RCB under pressure from the very first ball of PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
2. RCB Are Unbeaten on the Road This Season: Royal Challengers Bengaluru have demonstrated remarkable resilience away from home. They have won all 7 of their away games in IPL 2025, including one against PBKS in Mullanpur itself. Their adaptability and composure under pressure in unfamiliar conditions have been unmatched. This unbeaten away streak is a massive confidence booster for RCB heading into PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
3. Kohli Loves Playing Against Punjab Kings: Virat Kohli’s record against PBKS is extraordinary. He has scored 302 runs in his last five innings against Punjab at a staggering average of 75.5 and a strike rate of 151. This includes four scores of 50 or more. His consistency against this opposition makes him a key player for RCB in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
4. Harpreet Brar is PBKS’ Trump Card vs RCB: Harpreet Brar, the left-arm spinner for PBKS, has proven to be a thorn in RCB’s side. He has taken 11 IPL wickets against RCB—the most by any PBKS bowler against the Bengaluru side. His left-arm spin has repeatedly troubled their middle order, making him a crucial asset for PBKS in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
5. Josh Hazlewood is RCB’s Strike Weapon Away From Home: Josh Hazlewood has been RCB’s premier wicket-taker in away games this season. He has picked 10 of his 18 wickets this season in away games. His average (17.28) and strike rate (12.28) make him a serious threat in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1, especially if he can provide early breakthroughs.
6. Shreyas Iyer is PBKS’ Mr. Consistent in Playoffs: PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer has a phenomenal record in IPL playoff games. He has only been dismissed once in his last five IPL playoff appearances, scoring 160 runs at an impressive strike rate of 160.28. He’s PBKS’ anchor in crunch moments and will be crucial for their stability in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
7. RCB Bowlers Have Dominated PBKS This Season: RCB bowlers have had a very effective season against PBKS. They have taken 10 wickets at an economy of 7.74 and a strike rate of 19.3 against PBKS in their two matches this season. This is the most economical bowling record against PBKS by any team in IPL 2025, indicating their effectiveness in controlling PBKS’s strong batting lineup. This bowling performance will be a factor in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
8. Prabhsimran Singh Can Be the X-Factor: In their last meeting in Mullanpur, Prabhsimran Singh smashed a quickfire 33 off just 17 balls inside the powerplay. His ability to score quickly up front and provide explosive starts could be crucial in a high-pressure knockout game like PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
9. RCB’s Weakness Against Left-Arm Spin is a Tactical Cue: Royal Challengers Bengaluru have struggled against left-arm spinners in IPL 2025, suffering 16 dismissals—the second most among all teams. Harpreet Brar and Arshdeep Singh (who bowls left-arm pace but can bowl cutters effectively) will look to exploit this tactical weakness in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
10. Milestone Watch: Big Numbers on the Horizon: Several players are nearing significant milestones in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1, adding extra drama. Virat Kohli needs 5 sixes to reach 200 as a T20 opener. Phil Salt is just 16 runs away from completing 1000 IPL runs. Marcus Stoinis is 8 runs short of reaching 2000 IPL runs. Records are set to tumble in this blockbuster playoff match.
Playoff Records: Experience in High-Pressure PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1
Both teams have a history in the IPL playoffs, though neither has lifted the trophy. This adds an extra layer of narrative to PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
- RCB’s Playoff History: Royal Challengers Bengaluru have featured in 15 playoff matches but have won only five of them. They reached the IPL final three times (2009, 2011, 2016) but lost on all occasions. Their last Qualifier 1 appearance was in 2016, which they won.
- PBKS’s Playoff History: Punjab Kings have a less extensive playoff history, with just one win in four games. Their last final appearance was in 2014, where they lost Qualifier 1 but won Qualifier 2 to reach the final, which they also lost.
This marks the first time these two teams are facing each other in an IPL playoff match. The experience (or lack thereof in recent times) in such high-pressure games will be a major factor in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: What to Expect?
Given the stats, head-to-head records, and the importance of PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1, we can expect a fiercely contested match.
- Batting Dominance: Both teams possess explosive batting lineups, featuring some of the best hitters in the league. With a balanced pitch at Mullanpur, we could easily see a high-scoring encounter.
- Captaincy Battle: Shreyas Iyer’s experience in leading teams to IPL finals (and winning one) against Rajat Patidar’s first stint as captain in a Qualifier will be a fascinating battle of wits and strategies.
- Bowling Challenges: Both teams will need their bowlers to step up significantly. The Mullanpur pitch offers something for both pacers and spinners, so strategic bowling changes and effective use of impact players will be key. Arshdeep Singh for PBKS and Josh Hazlewood (if available) for RCB will be crucial in their respective bowling attacks.
- Home Advantage for PBKS: While RCB has an impressive unbeaten away record, PBKS will have the roaring home crowd support in Mullanpur. This can provide a significant boost in energy and morale, potentially tilting the scales in favor of PBKS in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1.
This PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 is set to be an absolute thriller. With a direct ticket to the final on the line, both trophy-starved franchises will leave no stone unturned. Every run, every wicket, and every strategic decision will count.
Conclusion: The Grand Stage Awaits in PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1
The stage is set for an electrifying PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1. Both Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have shown they belong on the big stage this season, shedding their previous “chokers” tag to some extent. The detailed PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 stats, head-to-head records, and analysis of the Mullanpur pitch all point towards a captivating contest.
Fans can expect a match filled with powerful hitting, strategic bowling, and intense fielding. The winner of this PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1 will earn a direct entry into the IPL 2025 final, while the losing team will get another chance in Qualifier 2. May the best team win this crucial playoff thriller! It promises to be a memorable night of IPL cricket.
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