By Chirag - May 29, 2025 01:59 PM
The excitement in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is at its peak as Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up for the first qualifier on 29 May 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. Both teams are chasing their elusive maiden IPL title, and a win here would secure a direct spot in the grand finale scheduled for June 3.
PBKS and RCB have had a similar journey this season, each registering nine wins and four losses in the league stage. But PBKS was able to win because of their greater net run rate. With both sides returning to the top two after a considerable gap, fans can expect an intense and high-stakes contest.
As the teams prepare for this crucial knockout, fantasy cricket enthusiasts will be looking to pick the right players who can make the difference. Here's a look at the top captaincy and vice-captaincy picks for your fantasy lineup in this high-voltage encounter.
Image Source: IPL-X
This season, RCB's legendary batsman Virat Kohli has once again shown his class. With 602 runs from 13 matches, Kohli has been instrumental in RCB's journey to the top. Boasting a phenomenal average of 60.20 and a strike rate of 147.91, the former RCB skipper has recorded eight fifties this season, with RCB winning each of those games. Entering the playoffs in red-hot form, having scored four fifties in his last five outings, Kohli is a top choice to lead your fantasy side.
Also Read: PBKS vs RCB, Mullanpur Cricket Stadium IPL stats, records and Pitch Report
Image Source: IPL-X
One of the brightest young talents in IPL 2025, Priyansh Arya has been a revelation for PBKS. The left-handed batter has scored 424 runs in 14 matches at an explosive strike rate of 183.54. With one century and two fifties to his name, Arya has consistently delivered for his team. Coming off a match-winning half-century in PBKS’ final league game, Arya is an exciting option for captaincy or vice-captaincy in fantasy teams.
Also Read: PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Head to Head, Playing 11 and AI Prediction
Image Source: IPL-X
Australian pace ace Josh Hazlewood returns to strengthen RCB’s bowling attack just in time for the playoffs. Despite missing a few games, Hazlewood has taken 18 wickets from just 10 matches in the tournament. Impressively, 10 of those wickets have come in his last five appearances, underlining his ability to perform under pressure. With the new ball and at the death, Hazlewood could play a decisive role in the qualifier and make for a reliable vice-captain choice.
With both teams evenly matched and high on confidence, the first qualifier of IPL 2025 promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fantasy team managers will need to bank on players who can handle pressure and deliver in crunch moments. Whether it's Kohli’s consistency, Arya’s explosive form, or Hazlewood’s wicket-taking prowess, these players could give your fantasy team the edge in one of the season's biggest matches.
Also Read: PBKS vs RCB, MPL, HaaNaa, Probo Prediction, Who will win today IPL match
Give Your Feedback