IPL Match Today: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings - Head to Head Stats, Expected Playing 11, and Live Streaming

The Indian Premier League 2025 provides edge-of-the-seat cricket action as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 34 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, on Friday, April 18, 2025. Both the teams can be seen in a close fight on the points table, each having 8 points from 6 matches, and this match becomes important for playoff hopes.

Head-to-Head Statistics Summary (RCB vs PBKS)

In the past, RCB and PBKS have had a close rivalry in the IPL. They have played each other 31 times, with Punjab Kings having a marginal edge with 17 victories to RCB's 14. The games have been closely contested, with both teams having success at home and away.

Current Form and Points Table

• Both RCB and PBKS have won 4 out of their 6 matches so far, placing them 3rd and 4th respectively.
• RCB’s recent form includes a dominant 9-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals, powered by Virat Kohli’s 77 off 49 balls.
• PBKS are coming off a historic bowling performance defending their lowest total of 111 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders, showcasing their bowling depth.
• The points table is headed by Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, with RCB and PBKS closely trailing, making this clash pivotal for playoff positioning.

Venue and Pitch Conditions

The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly pitch with consistent bounce, favoring stroke play. The average first innings score here is around 153, and teams chasing have a slight advantage historically, winning 163 out of 291 matches played at this venue. Weather conditions are expected to be clear with a temperature around 24°C and minimal rain chances, ensuring a full game.

Playing XI and Key Players to Watch

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

• Captain: Rajat Patidar
• Key batsmen: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal
• Recent standout: Virat Kohli’s 77 runs in the last match, anchoring the chase.
• Bowling spearhead: Harshal Patel and Harpreet Brar, both effective in the middle overs.

Punjab Kings

• Captain: Shreyas Iyer
• Key batsmen: Harnoor Singh, Priyansh Arya
• Bowling strength: Arshdeep Singh and Kagiso Rabada, who have been instrumental in defending low totals.
• Harnoor Singh’s consistent run-scoring (256 runs in 5 matches) will be crucial.

Live Streaming Details

Fans can catch the match live on the Star Sports Network. For mobile users, live streaming will be available on the Disney+ Hotstar app. Updates and live scores can also be tracked on popular sports websites.

Key Highlights

This is set to be an entertaining tie considering the equally matched teams. RCB will seek to capitalize on their home support and powerful batting lineup, while PBKS will look to their consistent bowling lineup. Toss and initial momentum might be crucial, but with the ground favoring batsmen, there should be a high-scoring game.

This IPL 2025 encounter between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be a high-intensity affair with both sides working to gain an important win in the playoff chase. Cricket enthusiasts can expect an electrifying evening of cricket at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.