Match 34 of the Indian Premier League 2025 brings an exciting face-off between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). As the league reaches its mid-season stage, both teams are eager to secure a vital win that could shape their journey toward the playoffs. With passionate fan support and high-stakes pressure, this encounter promises thrilling performances and key individual battles.
Match Details:
- Teams: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Start Time: 7:30 PM IST (7:45 PM NPT)
- Format: T20 (20 overs per side)
This match is crucial for both teams as they aim to strengthen their positions in the league standings. RCB, led by Virat Kohli, will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while PBKS, under the leadership of Shikhar Dhawan, aims to secure a vital away victory.
Where to Watch:
- India: Live broadcast on Star Sports Network; streaming available on JioCinema.
- Nepal: Accessible via Star Sports channels and JioCinema app.
- International Viewers:
- USA: Willow TV, Sling TV
- UK: Sky Sports
- Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
- Pakistan: Tapmad (free streaming)
For live scores and ball-by-ball commentary, you can follow the match on ESPNcricinfo or the official IPL website.
Team Form and Current Standing
Both RCB and PBKS are in the middle of the IPL points table. RCB has had a mixed season with some strong individual performances. PBKS, on the other hand, has shown potential but struggled with consistency. A win in today’s game could improve the chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
The pitch in Bengaluru usually favors batsmen. We can expect a high-scoring match with lots of boundaries. Spinners might come into play in the second half of the game. The weather forecast looks clear, and there are no signs of rain.
Head-to-Head Record
RCB and PBKS have played many close matches in the past. Historically, Punjab Kings have a slight edge in their overall record against RCB. However, playing at home gives RCB a good advantage.
Expected Playing XI for RCB
- Virat Kohli (c)
- Faf du Plessis
- Glenn Maxwell
- Rajat Patidar
- Dinesh Karthik (wk)
- Mahipal Lomror
- Mohammed Siraj
- Karn Sharma
- Reece Topley
- Vijaykumar Vyshak
- Cameron Green
Expected Playing XI for PBKS
- Shikhar Dhawan (c)
- Jonny Bairstow
- Liam Livingstone
- Sam Curran
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Shashank Singh
- Rishi Dhawan
- Harpreet Brar
- Rahul Chahar
- Kagiso Rabada
- Arshdeep Singh
Key Players to Watch
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. Kohli has shown excellent form this season, consistently providing strong starts at the top of the order. His experience and ability to control the innings make him a key asset in pressure situations. Faf du Plessis, with his aggressive stroke play and leadership qualities, adds further strength to the top order.
In the middle overs, Glenn Maxwell’s explosive batting can shift the momentum quickly. His ability to handle spin and clear boundaries with ease makes him a dangerous opponent on any day. With the ball, Mohammed Siraj remains a vital weapon for RCB, especially during the powerplay and in the death overs. His pace, swing, and control can trouble even the best of batters.
On the other side, Punjab Kings will look to their captain Shikhar Dhawan for a solid start. Known for his consistency and calm approach, Dhawan plays the anchor role while allowing others to attack around him. Liam Livingstone brings raw power and can change the course of a game in a few overs with both bat and ball.
All-rounder Sam Curran continues to be a match-winner for PBKS. His ability to contribute in both departments gives the team great flexibility. With the ball, Arshdeep Singh is a specialist in the death overs, known for his accurate yorkers and clever variations. Kagiso Rabada also adds depth and pace to the bowling attack, capable of picking wickets at crucial moments.
This game could be defined by individual brilliance, and with so many in-form players on both sides, fans can expect a highly competitive contest.
