PBKS vs RCB, IPL 2025 Qualifier 1: Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Face Stern Test Against Kohli’s Bengaluru
In a clash of titans, the Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for a high-stakes battle against Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the first qualifier of the IPL 2025 at the PCA Stadium in Mullanpur. Both teams, often labeled as perennial underachievers in the IPL, have defied all odds this season to finish in the top two positions at the end of the league stage—PBKS clinching the top spot and RCB securing second place.
This matchup promises fireworks as two of the tournament’s most dynamic teams vie for a direct ticket to the grand finale. With seasoned leaders, explosive batters, and cunning bowlers on both sides, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Who will hold their nerve in this trial by fire?
Shreyas Iyer: The Playoff Maestro
Shreyas Iyer has proven himself as a playoff specialist over the years. With an enviable record as an IPL captain, he has guided three different franchises to the playoffs. In 2020, he led Delhi Capitals to the final, only to fall short against Mumbai Indians. More recently, in 2024, Iyer masterminded Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) journey to their third IPL title. Now at the helm of PBKS, can Iyer replicate his magic and steer his team to glory for the third time in a final appearance?
Key Battles to Watch
Josh Hazlewood vs PBKS Openers
RCB’s bowling attack has received a massive boost with the return of Josh Hazlewood, who is fit and raring to go for the knockouts. Punjab’s dynamic opening pair of Prabhsimran Singh (499 runs) and Priyansh Arya (424 runs) has been a revelation this season, forming a lethal right-left combination. However, their aggressive approach thrives on width outside off-stump, something Hazlewood is unlikely to offer. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and probing lengths, the Australian pacer will challenge the uncapped Indian duo with deliveries aimed at the stumps. Will the youngsters rise to the occasion, or will Hazlewood expose their inexperience?
Virat Kohli vs PBKS’ Left-Arm Pacers
With a staggering 602 runs this season, Virat Kohli remains RCB’s batting linchpin and the tournament’s leading run-scorer. His last outing against PBKS at this very venue saw him score an unbeaten 73, guiding RCB to a commanding seven-wicket victory. However, Kohli has a known vulnerability against left-arm seamers, with a strike rate of just 125.91 and 17 dismissals in 99 innings as an opener against them. PBKS boasts two quality left-arm pacers in Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen, and Shreyas Iyer will likely unleash them early in the powerplay to target Kohli. Can the RCB star overcome this Achilles’ heel?
Venue Spotlight: Mullanpur’s PCA Stadium
The new PCA Stadium in Mullanpur has been a happy hunting ground for PBKS, especially for opener Priyansh Arya, who has smashed nine sixes in just 42 balls faced at this venue with an astonishing strike rate of 245.23. A total of nine matches have been played here, with teams batting first winning five times and chasing sides triumphing on four occasions, indicating a balanced pitch with opportunities for both batters and bowlers.
Form Guide and Team Morale
Both teams enter this clash in fine form. PBKS have won four of their last five matches (W, L, W, W, W), while RCB have secured three victories in their last five outings (W, L, NR, W, W). Reflecting on their journey, PBKS batter Shashank Singh shared with TimesofIndia.com, ‘It feels good to be in the top two. We manifested this as a team right after the auction. We’ve crossed a big hurdle, and there’s more to come. Maybe June 3 will be the day to celebrate fully.’
Meanwhile, RCB captain Rajat Patidar emphasized the importance of their position, stating, ‘Being in the top two was our plan, and achieving that is a huge boost. With less recovery time before the next match, we’ll focus on quick rest and maintaining a positive mindset after our last game in Lucknow.’
As the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 looms, this encounter is more than just a game; it’s a test of strategy, skill, and mental fortitude. Will Shreyas Iyer’s tactical brilliance outshine RCB’s star power, or will Virat Kohli’s experience propel Bengaluru to the final? All eyes are on Mullanpur for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown!