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As the league stage of IPL 2025 wraps up, the action now shifts to the much-anticipated playoffs. With only four matches left in the tournament, the journey to the championship crown intensifies. The first knockout fixture—Qualifier 1—will witness Punjab Kings (PBKS) squaring off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Mullanpur on Thursday. This high-voltage clash holds a direct ticket to the IPL 2025 Final, while the losing side will get a second shot in Qualifier 2.
The high stakes game between PBKS and RCB
Both PBKS and RCB come into this knockout brimming with confidence. PBKS secured a top-two finish on Monday after getting the better of Mumbai Indians in a decisive match. RCB, on the other hand, pulled off a dramatic victory over Lucknow Super Giants on the final day of the league phase to join PBKS at the summit with 21 points each from 14 games. Punjab edged ahead on net run-rate and will now enjoy the advantage of being the table-toppers.
Qualifier 1 is always a critical clash—it not only offers the shortest route to the final but also grants the luxury of a second chance. The team that finishes on the wrong side of the result will face the winner of the Eliminator (to be played between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans) in Qualifier 2.
Also READ: RCB’s former head coach suggests 2 big changes in playing XI ahead of Qualifier 1 vs Punjab Kings
What if rain washes out the Qualifier 1 fixture?
With the IPL schedule running tight, there’s no reserve day for Qualifier 1. If rain plays spoilsport in Mullanpur and the game is abandoned without a result, Punjab Kings will automatically progress to the final, thanks to their superior standing on the points table. RCB will then have to take the longer route and compete in Qualifier 2 for one last chance to make it to the summit clash.
Notably, both sides boast a formidable mix of youth and experience. For Punjab Kings, the leadership of Shreyas Iyer combined with the tactical acumen of head coach Ricky Ponting has brought fresh energy to the squad. The team’s core performers include Arshdeep Singh, Josh Inglis, and Marcus Stoinis—all capable of turning the game in a matter of overs.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with the presence of former skipper Virat Kohli, bring in their own brand of intensity and flair. The emergence of Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma, the dependability of Phil Salt, and the all-round contributions of Krunal Pandya make them a force to reckon with. Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar adds crucial experience to their bowling unit.
Also READ: Virat Kohli shatters David Warner’s long-standing record during LSG vs RCB clash in IPL 2025
