The 2025 Indian Premier League is heating up as we approach the final round of league-stage fixtures. On Sunday, 18 May, Rajasthan Royals (RR) take on the high-flying Punjab Kings (PBKS) in what promises to be a tantalizing encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
While Rajasthan Royals are officially out of the playoff picture, they’ll be playing for pride, and with a home crowd behind them, they’ll be keen to end their campaign on a high. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are very much in the hunt. A win here would cement their place in the playoffs and potentially boost their net run rate—vital in such a tightly packed table.
Team Form & Key Players
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
It’s been a season of “what could’ve been” for Rajasthan. After a strong start, their campaign faltered due to injuries and inconsistent middle-order performances. However, there have been individual sparks—most notably the sensational rise of Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old prodigy who stunned the cricketing world with a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans.
Key Contributors:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: RR’s top scorer with 473 runs. His flair and aggression in the powerplay make him a key asset. He also notched 67 against PBKS earlier this season.
- Riyan Parag: A breakthrough year with 377 runs, including a historic over where he smashed six consecutive sixes.
- Jofra Archer: Back to his best with 11 wickets. His ability to bowl upfront and at the death gives RR a crucial edge with the ball.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
PBKS, led by Shreyas Iyer, have emerged as serious title contenders this season. They come into this fixture with back-to-back wins, including a dominant 37-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. The Kings have momentum on their side, and every match now is a must-win to maintain their position in the top four.
Key Contributors:
- Shreyas Iyer: The skipper has anchored the innings consistently and made critical contributions under pressure.
- Arshdeep Singh: Has been lethal in the death overs, often breaking crucial partnerships. His economy and wicket-taking ability make him a betting favorite.
- Sam Curran & Liam Livingstone: X-factors in the middle order and with the ball—both offer multi-dimensional value and can change the game in an over or two.
Head-to-Head & Venue Stats
- Head-to-Head: RR 17 – 12 PBKS (29 matches)
- Last Meeting: Rajasthan Royals beat Punjab Kings earlier this season in a high-scoring thriller.
- Venue Watch (Sawai Mansingh Stadium): Traditionally a batting-friendly surface with something in it for spinners in the second innings. Average first innings score in IPL 2025 here is 182.
Value Bets:
- First Innings Score RR Over 170 Runs: With no pressure, RR could play with freedom.
- Most Sixes – Team: PBKS, with hitters like Livingstone and Curran, edge this market.
- To Score a Fifty: Yashasvi Jaiswal at 2.50 offers decent return considering his form.
Prediction & Final Verdict
While Rajasthan Royals will look to entertain their fans one last time this season, the stakes are far higher for Punjab Kings. Expect the Royals to come out swinging—especially with youngsters looking to make a statement—but Punjab’s superior balance, form, and playoff motivation make them the likely winners.
Prediction:
Punjab Kings to win – Their form, momentum, and depth give them the upper hand.
Watch out for: Vaibhav Suryavanshi – the teen sensation could light up Jaipur once again.
Betting Tip: Back Shreyas Iyer for Top PBKS Batsman and Arshdeep Singh for Top Bowler for smart returns.