Pratiksha Ghosh
New Delhi, May 29:
The first IPL 2025 Qualifier promises a high-voltage encounter as Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a direct ticket to the final on Thursday.
Led by captain Shreyas Iyer and guided by coach Ricky Ponting, PBKS have enjoyed a stellar season. However, with only two wins in four games at this venue, they face a tough challenge, especially having lost here previously to RCB, when Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 73.
RCB, rejuvenated and well-balanced this season, will count on Jitesh Sharma’s return to strengthen their middle-order.
With Tim David expected to rejoin the squad and Josh Hazlewood's possible return to the bowling line-up, Bengaluru looks formidable.
While PBKS rely on explosive starts from Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, the team will miss South African pacer Marco Jansen. His likely replacement, Azmatullah Omarzai, along with hopeful returnee Yuzvendra Chahal, will be crucial for the Kings' chances.
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown that could bring one of these teams closer to their first-ever IPL title.
