PK vs RR: IPL 18th Match Report-Rajasthan Royals Edge Out Punjab Kings in a Nail-Biting IPL Thriller!

In a captivating IPL 2025 clash on April 5, Rajasthan Royals (RR) narrowly defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 4 wickets at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mohali. The match was a roller-coaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing their strengths, but RR’s resilience in the chase ultimately secured them the win.

Scorecard

RR 205/4(20)

PK 155/9(20)

Match Report

Opting to bat first, PBKS began their innings with a jolt as opener Prabhsimran Singh was dismissed early. Shikhar Dhawan and Atharva Taide steadied the ship, adding valuable runs before Dhawan fell to a well-executed delivery. Liam Livingstone’s brief stay at the crease was cut short, but Sam Curran and Jitesh Sharma counter-attacked, building a crucial partnership. Shahrukh Khan’s quick-fire 41* off 23 balls propelled PBKS to a competitive total of 187/5 in their 20 overs.

Chasing 188, RR’s openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler started aggressively. Jaiswal’s 50 off 36 balls provided the momentum, but Buttler’s dismissal brought Devdutt Padikkal to the crease. Padikkal’s elegant stroke play resulted in a well-crafted 51 off 30 balls. Sanju Samson’s brief innings was cut short, but Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive 46 off 28 balls kept RR on track. Despite losing wickets in the latter stages, RR’s lower order, led by Riyan Parag’s 20, ensured they reached the target in 19.4 overs, finishing at 189/6.