IPL 2025 Qualifier 1: PBKS to Face RCB in High-Stakes Clash Amid Rain Concerns

By siliconindia  |  Thursday, 29 May 2025, 10:22:43 AM IST

IPL 2025 Qualifier 1: PBKS to Face RCB in High-Stakes Clash Amid Rain Concerns
  • PBKS and RCB finished with 21 points each; PBKS topped the table on net run rate.
  • If rain washes out Qualifier 1, PBKS will advance directly to the final.
  • RCB will face the Eliminator winner (MI vs GT) if Qualifier 1 is abandoned.
The stage is set for a high-octane clash in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, as table-toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) are all geared up to take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Mullanpur stadium on Thursday. Both teams ended the league stage with 21 points each from 14 matches, but PBKS clinched the top spot due to a superior net run rate following a crucial win against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Monday. RCB sealed their place with a stunning victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the final league fixture on Tuesday.
However, looming over this marquee encounter is the threat of rain, as Qualifier 1 has no reserve day. If weather plays spoilsport and the match is washed out, PBKS will advance directly to the final by virtue of finishing first on the points table. RCB, in that case, will get another shot at the title by facing the winner of the Eliminator between MI and Gujarat Titans (GT).
For Punjab Kings, this is a historic moment as they return to the play-offs for the first time since 2014. The Shreyas Iyer–Ricky Ponting duo has brought a refreshing sense of stability and aggression to the side, transforming them into one of the most consistent teams of the season.
RCB, on the other hand, are no strangers to the pressure of knockout games. Despite reaching the playoffs multiple times, their elusive title continues to haunt them. Yet again, they find themselves just a few steps away from glory.
With a top-two cushion in place, both teams are expected to play a fearless brand of cricket, knowing a second chance awaits in case of a setback. As the countdown begins, all eyes are on Mullanpur for what promises to be a gripping playoff showdown.

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