The excitement of the IPL 2025 playoffs kicks off with a blockbuster encounter as Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1 on Thursday, May 29, 2025. This thrilling face-off will unfold at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, with the action beginning at 7:30 PM IST. Fans can tune in on Star Sports Network or stream it live on JioCinema.
🏏 Match Preview: All Eyes on Mullanpur
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Fixture: PBKS vs RCB – Qualifier 1
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Date: May 29, 2025
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Time: 7:30 PM IST
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Venue: Mullanpur, Chandigarh
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Broadcast: Star Sports Network
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Streaming: JioCinema
With both teams finishing the league stage at 19 points apiece, it’s PBKS who hold the upper hand due to a stronger net run rate, securing them the top spot on the table.RCB is riding high on momentum after pulling off a record-breaking chase against the Lucknow Super Giants.
⚔️ Head-to-Head: A Battle of Equals
In their 35 IPL meetings so far, PBKS have edged ahead slightly with 18 wins, compared to RCB’s 17. The rivalry promises fireworks, and key player matchups will be central to the outcome:
🌧️ Weather Watch: Rain Could Be the Game-Changer
There’s a chance that rain may disrupt proceedings in Mullanpur. If the match is washed out, PBKS will automatically progress to the IPL 2025 Final based on their higher standing in the league stage, while RCB would have to regroup for Qualifier 2.
🏆 What’s at Stake?
The stakes couldn’t be higher.
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Winner: Direct entry into the IPL 2025 Final
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Loser: Another shot in Qualifier 2, where they’ll face the winner of the Eliminator between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians
With form, firepower, and the Final all on the line, the PBKS vs RCB clash is shaping up to be a playoff classic. Whether it’s Kohli’s class, Arshdeep’s accuracy, or an unexpected rain twist—fans are in for a dramatic evening of cricket.