• Yashasvi Jaiswal's explosive 67 propelled Rajasthan Royals to a dominating win over Punjab Kings.

  • RR secured a convincing victory by 50 runs against PBKS in the IPL 2025 match.

Fans erupt as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jofra Archer propel RR to victory against PBKS in IPL 2025
Fans erupt as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jofra Archer propel RR to victory against PBKS in IPL 2025 (Image source: X)

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In the 18th match of IPL 2025, held at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on April 5, fans were treated to an electrifying contest between the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). After winning the toss, PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer elected to bowl first, likely expecting early assistance under the evening lights. But what unfolded was a batting masterclass from the Royals—led by Sanju Samson—followed by a disciplined bowling effort that sealed a commanding 50-run victory.

Powerplay punch and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s onslaught against PBKS

Rajasthan Royals started their innings with calculated aggression, notching up 53 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket. The opening duo of Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal looked in sublime touch. Jaiswal, in particular, oozed confidence as he dismantled PBKS’ pace attack with an array of powerful strokes. He brought up his half-century off 40 balls, showcasing his flair with 3 fours and 5 towering sixes.

Jaiswal’s innings of 67 off 45 deliveries was laced with elegance and authority. Whether it was lofting Marco Jansen over long-off or pulling Lockie Ferguson into the stands, he seemed to be batting on a different surface. His partnership of 89 with skipper Samson set the foundation for a mammoth total. Although Jaiswal fell to Ferguson in the 14th over, but damage had already been done.

Middle order mayhem by Riyan Parag and  Dhruv Jurel’s finish

After the dismissals of Samson (38 off 26) and Nitish Rana (12 off 7), it was time for the Royals’ middle order to take the reins. Riyan Parag played a blinder, smashing 43* off just 25 balls, peppered with 3 fours and 3 sixes. Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel added quick runs at the death, pushing the Royals to a daunting 205/4 at the end of their 20 overs.

Despite decent spells from Arshdeep Singh (1/35) and Ferguson (2/37), the PBKS bowlers lacked the control to contain RR’s late onslaught. Marcus Stoinis was the most expensive, conceding 48 from his four overs without a wicket.

PBKS’s faltering chase: Early collapse and lone warrior

Chasing a stiff target of 206, PBKS never really found their footing. Jofra Archer struck in the very first ball, sending back debutant Priyansh Arya for a golden duck. Archer continued his destructive spell, claiming the wickets of captain Iyer and later Arshdeep, ending with impressive figures of 3/25, which earned him the Player of the Match award.

The top order crumbled under pressure, reduced to 43/4 inside the first seven overs. Just when the chase looked completely derailed, Nehal Wadhera stepped up with a spirited knock of 62 off 41. He batted with composure and aggression, hitting 4 boundaries and 3 sixes to keep Punjab’s faint hopes alive.

Wadhera and Glenn Maxwell (30 off 21) stitched together a 50-run partnership, briefly reviving the innings. However, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga ensured there was no miracle, chipping away at the middle and lower order with timely breakthroughs.

Bowling brilliance seals the deal for RR

RR’s bowling unit was spot on with their lines and lengths. Sandeep Sharma was exceptional with the new ball and at the death, picking 2/21 in his quota. Theekshana (2/26) and Hasaranga (1/36) kept things tight in the middle overs, not allowing PBKS to build any momentum. With wickets falling regularly and dot balls piling up, Punjab eventually finished at 155/9—falling short by a massive 50 runs.

Also WATCH: Jofra Archer castles Priyansh Arya and Shreyas Iyer with fiery pace in PBKS vs RR clash

Here’s how fan’s reacted:

Also WATCH: Sanju Samson goes livid after losing his wicket to Lockie Ferguson during PBKS vs RR game in IPL 2025

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.