On Wednesday, 30 April 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) produced a monumental performance to defeat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by four wickets at the famed Chepauk Stadium in IPL 2025, which gave PBKS the win they required to eliminate CSK from the tournament and push the Punjab Kings up the table. PBKS moved up four places in the IPL 2025 points table and into second place after this victory. In IPL 2025, the victory drastically improved their chances of making the playoffs as we approach the final leg of the tournament. 

The match was a pulsating contest, and the Punjab Kings showed tremendous poise to execute the chase conditions when it was tense. The middle-order players contributed key input for Punjab to recover from two wickets down early to chase down the total by CSK. In the end, CSK could not defend the total they posted and exited the tournament in a valiant effort. A bit of contrast as the CSK supporters at Chepauk had to watch their team exit the tournament at home.

See Also: Top 3 reasons why Chennai Super Kings Lost to Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 Match 49

Despite the win, Punjab Kings faced a setback as their captain, Shreyas Iyer, was penalised by the BCCI for a slow over rate during the match. As this was Punjab’s first such offense in the ongoing season, only Iyer was fined, in accordance with the IPL Code of Conduct. The team will now be more cautious about maintaining the required over rate in upcoming fixtures. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of discipline and time management in the high-stakes environment of the IPL.

Shreyas Iyer fined for slow over rate

The BCCI has fined Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer Rs 12 lakh for maintaining a slow over rate during the match against Chennai Super Kings. Due to this mistake, Punjab Kings were also not allowed to keep an extra fielder outside the circle in the 19th over.

Before Shreyas Iyer’s penalty in IPL 2025, several captains faced similar fines for slow over rates during the 2024 season. Among them were Hardik Pandya of Mumbai Indians, Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals, Rajat Patidar of Royal Challengers Bangalore, Shubman Gill from Gujarat Titans, and Rishabh Pant representing Lucknow Super Giants. These instances highlight a recurring issue among teams, emphasizing the ongoing challenge of maintaining over-rate discipline in the fast-paced format of the IPL.

During the current IPL 2025 season, today's clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has attracted maximum attention. However, two star players - Marcus Stoinis and Xavier Bartlett - are missing from the PBKS playing XI, leaving many fans curious.

ALSO SEE : Shubhman Gill drops bombshell revelation about his relationship with Sara Tendulkar

Why Marcus Stoinis Is Not Playing for PBKS Against KKR

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been a key player for PBKS this season. His hard-hitting in the middle order and his capability of bowling cameo overs make him a key asset. Yet, in today's match between PBKS and KKR, the team management thought to include Glenn Maxwell in the playing XI in place of him.

The primary reason for Stoinis' absence is team strategy and overseas player restrictions. Only four overseas players can be in the playing XI according to IPL rules, and PBKS have chosen Maxwell, who provides big-hitting talent along with spin-bowling a strategic decision given KKR's batting prowess.

There is no injury issue for Marcus Stoinis; he has merely been rotated out to suit the team's match strategy for today's vital match.

Why Xavier Bartlett Is Not Taking the Field Today

Xavier Bartlett, the Australian pace sensation who impressed on his IPL debut, also missed out today. While no statement has officially hinted at a trouble or injury, it seems like his absence yet again is owing to overseas player restrictions and strategy changes.

PBKS has managed their overseas players very carefully this season, there was just no space left for Bartlett today. The management must have gone for an experienced set to tackle KKR's dynamic batting lineup.

ALSO SEE : IPL 2025 DC vs RCB : Player battles to watch out

Punjab Kings' Strategy for Today's Match

The Punjab Kings management made these changes to optimize their strengths against a strong KKR lineup. Maxwell's addition is likely to strengthen the middle order and add more bowling options, something that might be significant on the Eden Gardens track.

Fans need not worry that Marcus Stoinis and Xavier Bartlett are no longer integral parts of the PBKS team and will be back in future games based on situations and opposition.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 26, 2025, at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This thrilling contest between two strong teams will be influenced by the weather and pitch conditions, which will play a crucial role in determining the result of the match.

Match Details

• Date: April 26, 2025
• Time: 07:30 PM IST
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• Win% % Batting First: 40%
• Win% % Bowling First: 58%

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

Weather Report: 

Kolkata’s weather forecast for match day looks promising with no threat of rain. Clear skies and mild winds are expected, making it ideal for a full game. The temperature will start around 31°C and gradually cool down during the match.

• Temperature: Starting at 31°C and cooling off as the game progresses.
• Winds: Light winds, with no major impact on gameplay.
• Precipitation: No rain forecast, ensuring a continuous match.
• Humidity: Moderate levels of humidity are expected but won't cause any major issues. (64% humidity).

Also read: 'Where is the thought process? - Former cricketer raised concerns for Rajasthan Royals coached by Rahul Dravid

Pitch Report:

Eden Gardens is renowned for its lively pitch, which offers a good balance between bat and ball. The pitch offers decent bounce and carry for the pacers but also gives batsmen the chance to play aggressive shots. It is generally a high-scoring venue, and fans can expect a thrilling contest.

• Batting and Bowling Friendly: While pacers may get some movement early on, the pitch is mostly friendly for aggressive batting.
• Spinners: Spinners may come into play during the latter stages of the match, but overall, it favors batsmen.
• Boundary Dimensions: Eden Gardens has relatively large boundaries, but batsmen can still clear them with the right shots.

Venue Records:

• Highest Team Total: 262/2 by PBKS against Kolkata Knight Riders.
• Lowest Team Total: 49/10 by RCB against Kolkata Knight Riders.
• Average First Innings Score: Around 170 runs.

With favorable weather conditions and a pitch that promises a great contest between bat and ball, the KKR vs PBKS match is set to be an exciting one at the Eden Gardens.

In Match 37 of the IPL 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) suffered a heavy seven-wicket defeat at the hands of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur. With only 158 to defend, PBKS came back with nothing to show as RCB chased down the total with seven deliveries to spare. Part of this continued run of bad luck for PBKS was not only their ineffective bowling tactics but also their inability to stage a meaningful batting challenge.

The principal reason for PBKS's defeat was their inability to dismantle RCB's batting momentum in the chase. On the bowling side, despite the early dismissal of Phil Salt very early by Arshdeep Singh, PBKS failed to apply any pressure on RCB's pair. Virat Kohli (73* off 43) and Devdutt Padikkal (61 off 35) staged an unbroken 103-run partnership in the middle and continued to punish PBKS. Yuzvendra Chahal and Harpreet Brar were ineffective, allowing RCB to reward them for unnecessarily waiting for wickets as opposed to being proactive bowlers intent on dismissals. At no point were PBKS able to disrupt, let alone dismantle, the RCB pair. RCB chased the total with difference as required.

Equally damaging was the poor batting performance PBKS displayed to arrive at a total of 157/6. The highlight was Prabhsimran's wild 33 off 17 goods to give Batters ahead hope; however, as the last three wickets tumbled to the RCB spin duo of Krunal Pandya (2/25) and Suyash Sharma (2/26), PBKS fell apart under pressure. Shashank Singh's painfully slow 31 off 33 and Sam Curran's recycling efforts of 17 off 14 amplified the damages PBKS had on the board, while RCB’s death bowling, led by Josh Hazlewood, restricted PBKS. To recover, PBKS must urgently refine their batting approach and bowling strategies to seize crucial moments in future matches.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 37: Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Full Match Highlights

1. Failure to Build Momentum in the Batting

PBKS could not maintain any momentum in their batting innings and finished just 157/6 in 20 overs, of which opener Prabhsimran Singh made 33 off 17 balls. PBKS' inability to build partnerships was assisted in no small part by RCB's spinners Krunal Pandya (2/25) and Suyash Sharma (2/26), who bowled PBKS into trouble in crucial situations. Also, Shashank Singh scored 31 off 33 balls, and there were other instances of batsmen such as Marco Jansen, who did little to generate momentum scoring. In the event you were wondering why PBKS' total of 157 was uncompetitive, it may mostly come down to the lack of run scoring on a 2-paced pitch.

2. RCB's Brilliant Death Bowling

RCB bowlers, particularly Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, executed brilliant death bowling, which restricted PBKS' momentum. Hazlewood kept things tight in the final overs, while Kumar (4/26, no wickets) bowled economically, and even PBKS struggled to take advantage of the last overs. In the end, because of the death bowling, PBKS were not able to set a competitive target for RCB and made it easier for RCB to run down PBKS' score.

Also Read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Virat Kohli trolls Shreyas Iyer after RCB's thrilling win over PBKS

3. Inability to Break up RCB's Batting Partnership

While chasing 158 runs, PBKS couldn't break the 103-run stand between Virat Kohli (73* off 43 balls) and Devdutt Padikkal (61 off 35 balls). Although PBKS got lucky and Brar took out Padikkal, it did not matter because the breakthrough came too late, as none of the PBKS bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh or Yuzvendra Chahal, could apply consistent scoreboard pressure on RCB early.

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) match is set to take place on April 20, 2025, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur. This highly anticipated clash will be a key encounter as both teams look to gain momentum in the tournament.

Match Details:

• Date: April 20, 2025
• Time: 03:30 PM IST
• Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur
• Win% % Batting First: 20%
• Win% % Bowling First: 80%

Also read: Not just a bowler: Amir turns finisher in dramatic cameo

Weather and Pitch Conditions:

Weather:

• The weather is expected to be pleasant and clear, with temperatures around 32°C.
• Humidity: 26%
• Rain Probability: No rain is expected, ensuring an uninterrupted match.
• A light breeze may assist swing bowlers in the early overs.

Pitch:

• The Mullanpur pitch is known for its true bounce and pace, making it a batting-friendly surface.
• Fast bowlers enjoy good carry and movement under lights.
• Spinners might find some grip as the match progresses, but the pitch remains favorable for stroke play.
• Average Score Batting First in the Last Season: 178
• Average Score Batting Second in the Last Season: 185
• Wins Batting First in the Last Five Games: 2
• Wins Batting Second in the Last Five Games: 3

Also read: GT VS DC IPL Match Live streaming: Where & How to watch on TV

Venue Records: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur

• Highest Team Total: 240/5 by Chennai Super Kings against Kings XI Punjab in 2008.
• Lowest Team Total: 67 all out by Delhi Daredevils against Kings XI Punjab in 2017.
• Average First Innings Score: Approximately 175 runs.

Why Tim David Won Player Of The Match Award Despite RCB’s IPL 2025 Defeat Vs PBKS

In an exciting IPL 2025 encounter between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), the spotlight shone brightly on one man—Tim David. While RCB eventually suffered a narrow defeat, David’s explosive and courageous performance earned him the Player of the Match award, raising many eyebrows. It's not often that a player from the losing side receives such an honor, but David’s performance was one that simply couldn’t be ignored.

In short:-

• Tim David scored 50 off 26 vs PBKS
• David also took 2 catches
• RCB lost to PBKS by 5 wickets on Friday

A Lone Warrior in a Crumbling Line-up

RCB faced early setbacks during their chase, with the top and middle order collapsing under relentless pressure from PBKS bowlers. At one point, it looked as though RCB might not even reach a respectable total. However, Tim David walked in and took matters into his own hands. He launched a counter-attack that left fans on the edge of their seats and the PBKS camp temporarily rattled.

David scored a sensational 82 runs off just 41 balls, hitting 7 sixes and 5 fours. His power-hitting was clean, calculated, and came just when RCB needed a spark. Despite wickets falling around him, David maintained his composure and carried the team close to the target, turning what looked like a one-sided match into a nail-biting finish.

Impact Beyond the Scorecard

The Player of the Match award isn’t always about being on the winning side. It is awarded to the player who has the greatest influence on the game—and that’s exactly what David had. His fearless approach, ability to find boundaries under pressure, and sheer determination shifted the game’s momentum.

One of the most memorable moments of the night came when David smashed 24 runs in a single over, taking down a seasoned bowler with breathtaking confidence. It was a passage of play that momentarily put RCB in control and made the chase look achievable.

Also read: [WATCH] Viral sensation: Robo Dog steals show dancing with cheerleaders in IPL 2025

The IPL 2025 season continues to deliver thrilling action as teams fiercely compete for top positions. The points table witnessed notable changes following the recent clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS).

In a rain-shortened match of 14 overs per side, Punjab Kings emerged victorious against Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 5 wickets. RCB’s batting was lackluster as they could only muster 95/9, with Tim David scoring a highlight 50 not out off 26 balls. David’s effort was nearly single-handed, as the rest of the batting lineup collapsed to 42/7 while Kohli contributed only a single. Punjab’s bowlers—Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar, and Yuzvendra Chahal—each claimed two wickets. PBKS’s chase was aided with 33 runs from Nehal Wadhera, followed by a Marcus Stoinis six to secure the victory at 98/5 in 12.1 overs. Despite Josh Hazlewood’s impressive 3/14, his efforts ultimately went in vain.

Latest IPL 2025 Points Table:

As of April 18, 2025, following the match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs. Punjab Kings (PBKS), the updated IPL 2025 points table is as follows:

Here is the updated IPL 2025 Points Table based on the data you provided:

Also read: RR vs LSG : Match 36 Weather and Pitch report IPL 2025

Orange & Purple Cap in IPL 2025

Orange Cap (Most Runs):

• Nicholas Pooran  - 357 Runs
• B Sai Sudharsan -329 Runs
• Mitchell Marsh - 295 Runs

Purple Cap (Most Wickets):

• Noor Ahmad  - 12 Wickets
• Josh Hazlewood - 12 Wickets
• Kuldeep Yadav - 11 Wickets

'Kohli Out, RCB Out' – Fans React as Virat Kohli Falls to Arshdeep Singh in Pivotal IPL 2025 Clash

The much-anticipated IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) took a dramatic turn when star batter Virat Kohli was dismissed early by Arshdeep Singh, sending shockwaves through the Chinnaswamy Stadium and across social media.

Kohli, who has been the backbone of RCB’s batting lineup for over a decade, walked out to the crease with high expectations riding on his shoulders. However, Arshdeep Singh, known for his ability to deliver under pressure, struck gold with a perfectly executed delivery that saw Kohli caught behind for a modest score.The dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match. RCB, already under pressure in the tournament standings, struggled to recover from the early blow. As the team’s hopes began to fade, fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with the phrase "Kohli out, RCB out" trending across platforms within minutes.

Also read:IPL 2025:What is cut off time of RCB vs PBKS match?

Twitter, in particular, was flooded with reactions — some disheartened, some critical, and others simply resigned to the team's familiar struggles.

“Kohli’s wicket is half the match lost for RCB. Same story every season,” wrote one user.“Arshdeep has done what many dream of. Dismissing King Kohli at his home ground!” posted another. For Punjab Kings, the moment was crucial in asserting dominance and building momentum in the match. Arshdeep’s breakthrough set the tone for a disciplined bowling performance that kept RCB’s chase in check throughout the innings.

While RCB fans will hope for a turnaround in the coming fixtures, the Kohli-Arshdeep moment may go down as one of the defining highlights of IPL 2025 — not just for the cricketing impact, but for how it captured the emotional pulse of fans across the country.

As always, when Kohli walks back to the pavilion early, it doesn’t just affect the scoreboard — it shakes the spirit of an entire fanbase.

Twitter reactions after virat  kohli wicket 

Highlights of Virat Kohli innings today 🥹😭#RCBvsPBKS #PBKSvsRCBpic.twitter.com/hbJzkUZuvQ

— Ramesh (@Iam_Rameshh_) April 18, 2025

#RCBvPBKS
Virat Kohli caught in 4k at Chinnaswamy pic.twitter.com/fMmPMATjrR

— theboysthing (@theboysthing07)

April 18, 2025

Shreyas Iyer with Virat Kohli. ❤️

- Two Greats of Indian Cricket. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/XjmISfhw6M

— Pick-up Shot (@96ShreyasIyer) April 18, 2025

Strike rate in IPL 2025 :

Rohit Sharma - 132
Virat Kohli - 129 😭
Ms Dhoni - 160 🐐 pic.twitter.com/cFPRkkpQSD

— ` (@Itz_Bl3ze) April 18, 2025

Virat Kohli on 18th April 2008 : 1 run in 5 balls.

Virat Kohli on 18th April 2025: 1 run in 3 balls.#RCBvsPBKS #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/zCpmYnkzNZ

— Grok Bhau (@GrokBhau) April 18, 2025

Let’s all laugh at Chokli 😂#RCBvPBKS Chinnaswamy #ViratKohli rain Virat Kohli #RCBvsPBKS #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/tPFNuNN18y

— SOS (@soswinter) April 18, 2025

Virat Kohli bhai ki batting dekhne ke liye TV khola tha #RCBvsPBKS #RCBvPBKS pic.twitter.com/CcUO2jCzVo

— Raja Babu (@GaurangBhardwa1) April 18, 2025

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is returning with exciting cricket action, which is all set to begin on March 22, 2025. This season holds the promise of exciting matches, fierce rivalries, and memorable performances by the best cricketers in the world. Fans globally are eagerly waiting to watch and support their favorite teams. From watching television to streaming online, here is a complete guide to IPL 2025 

 MI vs SRH: Match Details

• Teams: RCB vs PBKS
• Date: 18th April, 2025
• Time: 7:30 pm.
• Venue: Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangaluru.

RCB vs PBKS Live Streaming  TV Broadcast by Country

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: RR vs LSG Match 36 - A Head to Head breakdown

Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings Predicted Playing XI

Punjab Kings Playing XI 

Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Josh Inglis, Nehal Wadhera, Glenn Maxwell, Suryansh Shegde, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh  

Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI

Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal

Impact Player: Suyash Sharma/ Rasikh Salam

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 18, 2025, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. It is safe to say that this is one of the most awaited IPL 2025 matches. The form of both teams suggests that the blending of the climatic conditions could prove to be the deciding factor of the day.

Match Details
Date: April 18, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru
Win%  Batting First: 41%
Win%  Bowling First: 53%

Weather Report:

The climatic conditions of Bengaluru, for the time being, do not seem to pose a threat to an uninterrupted game.
Winds: Light winds are predicted with no impacts on gameplay on the whole grassroots level.
Precipitation: The good news is that there is a 1% chance for today, so there is no chance of intervention.
Humidity:  Player endurance may be impacted by 26% humidity, and it is not expected to be too extreme.
Wind Conditions: As for temperature, the game will open with the temperature around 31.5 degrees C and will cool slightly more as time goes on.

Pitch Report:

 M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for its batting-friendly surface, offering plenty of runs for aggressive batters.

The pitch provides a consistent bounce, favoring stroke play and high-scoring encounters.
Pacers may find some early assistance with the new ball, but overall, the conditions tend to favor batsmen.
Spinners may struggle due to the shorter boundaries, which make defending totals challenging.

Also read: IPL 2025: RCB vs PBKS player battles to watch out

Venue Records:

Highest Team Total: 287/3 by Sunrisers Hyderabad against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Lowest Team Total: 82/10 by Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Average First Innings Score: Approximately 171 runs.

With clear skies and a pitch that encourages big scores, fans can expect an electrifying contest between RCB and DC at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings Predicted Playing XI

Punjab Kings Playing XI 

Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Josh Inglis, Nehal Wadhera, Glenn Maxwell, Suryansh Shegde, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh  

Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI

Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal

Impact Player: Suyash Sharma/ Rasikh Salam