As the IPL 2025 league stage approaches its finale, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) face off against a now-eliminated but potentially dangerous Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. With top-two playoff spots still up for grabs, PBKS will look to build on their momentum following GT’s defeat to LSG on Thursday. However, even a win might not guarantee their place in the top two, as their final position could hinge on their upcoming face-off with the Mumbai Indians.
In contrast, DC enter this game with no pressure of qualification. Their playoff hopes ended after a disappointing loss to Mumbai Indians at Wankhede, where they squandered a strong start. While the loss of Axar Patel to illness was a factor, DC’s inconsistency throughout the season has kept them from truly challenging the top teams.
What’s at Stake?
For PBKS, it’s simple — win and stay in contention for a top-two finish. With their power-packed batting lineup, which has registered six 200+ totals when batting first, they’ll be expected to dominate once again. However, Delhi’s unpredictability and lack of pressure could turn this into a banana peel fixture.
Pitch & Conditions – Jaipur
Expect a good batting track as has been the norm this season, though the bounce may be on the lower, skiddier side. Bowlers will need to rely on variation, especially with Jaipur currently experiencing temperatures in the high 40s. Despite the heat, curators have maintained surface integrity well so far.
Team News & Tactical Watch
Punjab Kings
- The Aussie trio of Inglis, Stoinis, and Hardie have joined the squad and are available for selection.
- Harpreet Brar continues to be a key weapon against left-handers, boasting four wickets in just 30 balls with a dot-ball percentage of 40%.
Probable XII:
Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar/Vijaykumar Vysakh, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.
Delhi Capitals
- Axar Patel’s availability remains uncertain after missing the last game due to fever.
- Vipraj Nigam and Mukesh Kumar are also under watch after fitness concerns in the previous match.
- Kuldeep Yadav, key to DC’s bowling, will need to replicate his early-season form if DC hope to spoil PBKS’ party.
Probable XII:
KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, Abishek Porel (wk), Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Axar Patel (c)/Madhav Tiwari, Vipraj Nigam, Kuldeep Yadav, Dushmantha Chameera, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Kumar
Did You Know?
- KL Rahul is the only batter this season to score a century in a losing cause.
- Vipraj Nigam is among just five all-rounders this IPL with 100+ runs and 8+ wickets.
- PBKS’ six 200+ totals when batting first is second only to KKR’s record in 2014.
