By Chirag - Apr 18, 2025 11:36 AM
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Punjab Kings (PBKS) will square off in an exciting match on Friday, April 18, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the 2025 Indian Premier League. With both sides locked at eight points from six games—each with four wins and two losses—this fixture carries significant weight in the race for playoff positions.
RCB are riding high after a dominant performance against Rajasthan Royals, yet curiously, all their wins have come on the road. They remain winless at home and will be eager to turn the tide in front of their passionate Bengaluru crowd. On the other hand, PBKS arrive with momentum, having pulled off a stunning defensive win against Kolkata Knight Riders, successfully defending a modest total of 111 runs.
With the stage set for a high-voltage clash, here are three batters who could light up the scoreboard and emerge as the top run-scorers in today’s game.
Shreyas Iyer has been a pillar of strength for Punjab Kings this season—not just as a leader but also with the bat. While he had a rare failure in the last match against KKR, getting dismissed without scoring, his overall performance remains stellar.
In six innings so far, Iyer has amassed 250 runs at an impressive average of 62.50 and a phenomenal strike rate of 204.91, including three half-centuries. As PBKS head to a batting-friendly venue like the Chinnaswamy, Iyer will be hungry to bounce back and capitalize on the short boundaries and fast outfield. A big innings from the skipper could prove to be a match-defining moment.
Phil Salt has stepped into a crucial role at the top of the order for RCB, especially after the departure of Faf du Plessis. The Englishman has delivered quick starts in the powerplay, consistently putting the opposition under pressure.
His recent knock against Rajasthan Royals—65 off 33 balls—showcased his explosive batting style, featuring five fours and six sixes at a strike rate of 196.97. Salt is currently RCB’s second-highest run-scorer this season, with 208 runs at an average of 34.66 and a strike rate of 185.71.
If Salt can replicate his away performances at home, it could provide RCB with the platform they need to post or chase down a competitive total.
With 248 runs from six games this season, RCB's star Virat Kohli is in outstanding form and is at the top of the team's batting stats. Virat has already scored three fifties, all in away games, with an average of 62 and a strike rate of 143.35.
In the previous match against RR, Kohli anchored the chase with an unbeaten 62 off 45 balls, playing a composed yet authoritative innings. However, the former RCB captain is yet to deliver a significant performance at home this season.
Known for rising to the occasion, Kohli will be determined to break the home jinx and guide his team to their first win at the Chinnaswamy this year. His experience and form make him a prime candidate to top the run charts in today’s contest.
The match between RCB and PBKS promises to be exciting because both teams are evenly balanced and its main players are playing at their best. While the bowlers have had their moments this season, this fixture is likely to be a batter’s delight, especially at a venue like Chinnaswamy.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Who Could Take Most Wickets in RCB vs PBKS Match?
Give Your Feedback