By Chirag - May 08, 2025 11:06 AM
The picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala is all set to host an exciting IPL 2025 encounter on Thursday, May 8, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on Delhi Capitals (DC). With both sides pushing hard for a spot in the playoffs, the stakes are high in this first head-to-head meeting of the season.
PBKS currently sit third on the points table with 15 points from 11 games, having registered seven wins and three defeats, along with one no result. The team has been in fine form, showcasing a balanced effort with both bat and ball. On the other hand, DC have 13 points from 11 matches and are still very much in the playoff race. However, a setback today could put their campaign in risk.
As both sides gear up for this high-pressure fixture, bowlers will play a crucial role, especially given the conditions at Dharamsala that often aid pace and bounce. Here’s a look at three bowlers who could emerge as the most successful wicket-takers in today’s match:
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South African pacer Marco Jansen has quietly been a vital part of Punjab's bowling attack this season. The lanky left-arm seamer has taken 11 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 28.90 and an economy rate of 8.79. In PBKS’ recent outing at this very venue against LSG, Jansen bowled a disciplined spell of 1/31, removing Abdul Samad with a sharp short delivery.
His ability to extract bounce and hit awkward lengths makes him a potential threat to DC’s top order. Jansen’s knack for breaking partnerships in the middle overs could be pivotal in controlling Delhi’s scoring momentum.
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The leader of Delhi's bowling attack has been Mitchell Starc, one of the fastest bowlers in the world of cricket. With 14 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 26.14, the Australian speedster has proven his worth despite an expensive economy of 10.16.
Although he didn’t bowl in the rain-affected clash against SRH, Starc’s last full outing saw him take 3/43 against KKR, including the key wickets of Gurbaz, Powell, and Anukul Roy. With PBKS boasting an aggressive opening pair in Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, Starc’s role with the new ball during the powerplay will be vital in setting the tone for Delhi.
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Punjab's bowling team is still led by Arshdeep Singh, who is remarkably consistent. The left-arm seamer has bagged 16 wickets from 10 games, averaging just 18.18 and maintaining an impressive economy rate of 8.00.
In PBKS’ last game at Dharamsala, Arshdeep delivered a game-changing performance with figures of 3/16, dismantling the LSG top order by removing Markram, Marsh, and Pooran. He is a complete T20 package because of his ability to swing the new ball and hit accurate yorkers at the end.
Heading into a critical contest, Punjab will once again rely on Arshdeep to provide early breakthroughs and keep the pressure on DC.
With the playoff race intensifying, both PBKS and DC will need their strike bowlers to step up under pressure. While Arshdeep and Jansen offer variety and control for Punjab, Starc’s firepower can turn the game on its head for Delhi. Expect a riveting battle between bat and ball at one of the most scenic venues in the tournament.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Who Could Score the Most Runs in DC vs PBKS Match?
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