It is poetic that the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 sees a clash of two teams seeking redemption, history, and their elusive first title. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are two of just the three franchises to have played all the seasons but without winning a trophy. Now, they find themselves just two wins away from finally ending their barren runs.
The high-stakes clash is at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium in Mullanpur, the very venue where RCB handed PBKS a defeat earlier this season. Virat Kohli was the Player of the Match that day, and his charged-up celebration in front of Shreyas Iyer said it all. Now, with a final spot up for grabs, Kohli and Co. have a golden chance to make it count when it matters the most.
Josh Hazlewood boost, Patidar’s impact role, no Tim David
The big news for RCB is the availability of their pace spearhead, Josh Hazlewood, who has recovered from injury and is all set to return. There was a concern that he may not come back after a one-week suspension. The Australian has been their most consistent bowler this season, and his return will bolster a bowling unit that already boasts depth with stars like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya.
Josh Hazlewood – IPL 2025 Stats
| Matches | Wickets | Economy | Strike Rate | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 18 | 8.44 | 12.00 | 4/24 |
While Nuwan Thushara impressed against LSG, Hazlewood’s experience in big games gives him the edge. If not available, Thushara will continue in the XI. Meanwhile, Rajat Patidar, who led the side as an impact substitute recently, may continue in the same role again. With Jitesh Sharma leading the side and firing with the bat, RCB might prefer starting with an extra bowling option and bringing in Patidar as per the match situation.
Tim David, however, remains unlikely to feature due to a hamstring injury he sustained against SRH. His absence leaves a void in the middle order, but RCB will rely on Livingstone, Shepherd, and Krunal to fill that gap with flexibility and firepower.
Predicted RCB Playing XI vs PBKS
| No. | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli | Top-order batter |
| 2 | Phil Salt🛩️ | Wicketkeeper-opener |
| 3 | Mayank Agarwal | Top-order batter |
| 4 | Rajat Patidar (Impact Sub) | Middle-order batter |
| 5 | Jitesh Sharma (c & wk) | Middle-order batter |
| 6 | Liam Livingstone🛩️ | Batting all-rounder |
| 7 | Krunal Pandya | Spin all-rounder |
| 8 | Romario Shepherd🛩️ | Pace all-rounder |
| 9 | Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Right-arm pacer |
| 10 | Yash Dayal | Left-arm pacer |
| 11 | Josh Hazlewood🛩️ | Right-arm fast |
| 12 | Suyash Sharma | Leg spinner |
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