By Chirag - Apr 08, 2025 02:31 PM
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 continues to heat up as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) prepare to host the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Tuesday, April 8. The clash will take place at the newly designated home venue for PBKS in Mullanpur. This match carries significant importance for both sides—PBKS are aiming to bounce back after their first defeat of the season, while CSK are desperate to reverse a string of poor results.
PBKS started their campaign strongly with back-to-back wins but faltered against Rajasthan Royals in their previous game, which also happened to be their first match at home. CSK, on the other hand, have had a disappointing run. After beginning with a win over Mumbai Indians, the five-time champions have lost three consecutive games to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals.
After missing the first three games of the season, Devon Conway returned to CSK’s playing XI in their last match against Delhi Capitals. While he managed only 13 runs off 14 deliveries, Conway is a seasoned performer and will be eager to make a strong statement going forward.
The Kiwi left-hander was outstanding in the 2023 IPL season, amassing 672 runs from 16 matches at a brilliant average of 51.69 and a strike rate of 139.70. His tally included six half-centuries, and he often provided solid starts for CSK at the top.
With CSK struggling to find momentum, a solid innings from Conway at the top could be vital to their fortunes. He’ll be expected to fire against PBKS and give the visitors a platform to build on.
Nehal Wadhera has been one of the standout emerging batters for PBKS this season. Having featured in just two games so far, he’s already racked up 105 runs at a blazing strike rate of 159.09.
In the previous match against Rajasthan Royals, Wadhera showcased his aggressive intent with a 41-ball 62, which included four boundaries and three sixes. With international stars like Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell yet to find their rhythm, Wadhera’s form has been a silver lining in PBKS’s middle order.
As Punjab look to secure their first win at home, the young left-hander could once again play a pivotal role with the bat.
Leading from the front, PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer has been in sublime touch this season. He is currently the team’s leading run-scorer with 159 runs from three matches at a sensational strike rate of 206.49.
Iyer has already recorded two half-centuries in IPL 2025 and has looked in complete control at the crease. Although he managed only 10 runs in the last outing, his aggressive approach was evident as he struck two boundaries in a brief five-ball stay.
Since his impressive run in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Iyer has been batting with great confidence, and his form has been a cornerstone of Punjab’s early success. PBKS will be banking on their captain once again to anchor the innings and lead by example against CSK.
Also Read: PNJ vs CHN Dream11 Prediction: Top 3 Captain Picks for PBKS vs CSK
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