By Chirag - May 17, 2025 08:58 AM
The 59th match of Indian Premier League(IPL) 2025 is set to unfold at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, where Rajasthan Royals (RR) will host Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday, May 18, at 3:30 PM IST. While RR are already eliminated from playoff contention, they still have the opportunity to play spoilsport to PBKS’ playoff ambitions. Punjab, currently positioned third on the points table with seven wins from ten games, are just one victory away from securing their berth in the top four. Interestingly, RR handed PBKS a heavy defeat by 50 runs the last time these two sides met this season.
The pitch at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium generally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Spinners can come into play as the game progresses, especially during day matches. Historically, chasing teams have enjoyed better success here, winning 39 out of the 61 games played, compared to 22 wins for teams batting first. The average first innings score at the venue is approximately 164, indicating a competitive total.
The weather in Jaipur is expected to be hot and dry on Sunday. With temperatures peaking at around 40°C and humidity hovering near 26%, it will be challenging for players, especially during the early part of the game. Fortunately, there is no forecast of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted contest.
These two franchises have produced several nail-biting encounters over the years. Out of the 29 matches played between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings in IPL history:
RR hold the upper hand historically, including a convincing victory in their previous clash this season.
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Image Source: IPL-X
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 2. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 3. Nitish Rana, 4. Riyan Parag (c), 5. Dhruv Jurel (wk), 6. Shimron Hetmyer, 7. Wanindu Hasaranga, 8. Jofra Archer, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Sandeep Sharma, 11. Yudhvir Singh Charak
Impact Player: 1. Fazalhaq Farooqi
Image Source: IPL-X
1. Priyansh Arya, 2. Prabhsimran Singh (wk), 3. Shreyas Iyer (c), 4. Shashank Singh, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Suryansh Shedge, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. Lockie Ferguson, 9. Yuzvendra Chahal, 10. Arshdeep Singh, 11. Yash Thakur
Impact Player: 1. Nehal Wadhera
Considering recent form, squad strength, and current momentum, Punjab Kings come into this game as the favorites. Their well-rounded bowling attack and balanced batting order have been key in their impressive run so far. However, Rajasthan Royals, with nothing to lose, may adopt an aggressive strategy and rely on individual brilliance from players like Hetmyer or Hasaranga.
Though the stakes are higher for Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals could use this match to test young talent and end their season on a high. With a playoff spot on the line for PBKS and pride at stake for RR, fans can expect a fiercely competitive contest in Jaipur.
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