The stage is all set for one of the most exciting matches of the Indian Premier League 2025 season. Punjab Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the much-anticipated Qualifier 1. This match will be played in Mullanpur and promises to be a thrilling battle between two powerful teams. Fans from across the world are waiting eagerly to see who takes the first step towards the final.
Punjab Kings have looked strong and balanced throughout the season. They finished on top of the points table and now face the challenge of beating a confident Bengaluru team. In this article, we take a close look at the playing 11 of Punjab Kings for the Qualifier 1 clash. We will talk about the form of each player, their past performances, and what they bring to the team. If you are a cricket fan or someone interested in fantasy cricket, this breakdown will help you understand the full strength of PBKS for this big game.
Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya to Open the Innings
Punjab Kings have found a solid opening pair in Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya. These two batters have provided strong starts to the team in most of the matches during IPL 2025. Prabhsimran plays with an attacking mindset and does not waste time to go after the bowlers. His strike rate has been impressive, and he has often put pressure on the opponent right from the start.
Priyansh Arya, on the other hand, has shown great maturity. He is a left-handed batter and has scored more than 400 runs this season. His most recent performance includes a match-winning half-century, which helped PBKS secure an important win. The pair of Priyansh and Prabhsimran is expected to provide a flying start in Qualifier 1 as well.
Josh Inglis Adds Firepower in the Middle
Josh Inglis has returned to the PBKS squad just at the right time. The Australian wicketkeeper-batter played a key role in the last match against Mumbai Indians. He scored a fast half-century and stayed till the end to guide the team to victory. His presence in the middle order adds experience and confidence.
Inglis has a natural ability to play attacking shots and rotate the strike smartly. He can control the innings if wickets fall early or accelerate if the team gets a good start. PBKS will count on him to deliver another strong performance against a tough RCB bowling unit.
Captain Shreyas Iyer Leads from the Front
Shreyas Iyer has led Punjab Kings with calm and smart decisions throughout the season. As captain, he has made good use of his bowlers and guided the team with confidence. With the bat, Iyer has played some important innings, especially under pressure situations. His presence in the middle gives stability to the batting lineup.
In the last match, Iyer played an anchor role and stayed till the end with Inglis. Together, they made sure there was no mistake in chasing the target. Against Bengaluru, Iyer calm leadership and ability to handle pressure will be crucial for PBKS.
Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh – Middle Order Strength
Punjab Kings have benefited from the support of Indian talents like Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh in the middle order. Both players have grabbed their chances and shown great confidence in crunch situations. Nehal is known for his classy stroke play, and he can change gears when required.
Shashank Singh has been used as a finisher in most matches. He hits big sixes and is not afraid to take risks in the final overs. These two batters have added balance to PBKS and made sure the team does not rely only on foreign players. Their performance in Qualifier 1 can make a big difference.
Marcus Stoinis The All-Round Boost
Marcus Stoinis is one of the key all-rounders in this Punjab Kings setup. His ability to hit big shots in the death overs and bowl a few important overs makes him a complete package. Stoinis played an important role in the league stages and will be trusted once again in this knockout game.
The Australian star brings experience and power to the PBKS lineup. He can come in at number six or seven and provide the big hits that are needed in the final overs. With the ball, he can be used as a backup option when one of the main bowlers is having an off day.
Suryansh Shedge – A Young Talent Making Impact
Suryansh Shedge has made the most of his chances in IPL 2025. The young Indian all-rounder has been a handy option with both bat and ball. He has the ability to hit quick runs and also bowl tidy overs in the middle.
His inclusion in the playing 11 gives PBKS the depth that every team needs in big matches. Suryansh can fill multiple roles depending on the match situation. Whether it is providing finishing touches or breaking a partnership with the ball, he has the skills to do it.
Arshdeep Singh – The Bowling Leader
Arshdeep Singh has been the leader of the PBKS bowling attack this season. He is the leading wicket-taker for the franchise and has been brilliant, especially in the final overs. In the last match against MI, Arshdeep picked up two wickets in the last over and helped restrict the opponent to a low total.
His ability to bowl yorkers under pressure makes him a dangerous bowler. Punjab Kings will rely heavily on Arshdeep to deliver another strong performance, especially against RCB batters like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis.
Harpreet Brar – Spin Option in Middle Overs
With Yuzvendra Chahal injured, Punjab Kings will look to Harpreet Brar to lead the spin attack. Harpreet is an experienced spinner who can bowl in powerplay overs and also during the middle part of the innings. He has the control to keep the run rate down and the skill to take important wickets.
Against a strong RCB lineup, Harpreet will have a big role to play. His bowling against left and right-hand combinations will test his accuracy. The team will look to him to provide the breakthroughs in the middle overs.
Xavier Bartlett Brings Pace to the Attack
Xavier Bartlett is expected to be part of the playing 11 as the replacement for Marco Jansen, who has joined the South African squad for the WTC final. Bartlett has featured in a few matches this season and has done well with the new ball.
He is a tall fast bowler who can generate bounce and speed. Bartlett will be expected to bowl in the powerplay and provide early wickets. If he can trouble RCB’s top order, PBKS will be in a strong position right from the start.
Vijaykumar Vyshak – Aiming for a Stronger Show
Vijaykumar Vyshak has been given chances this season, but his performances have not been very consistent. However, PBKS are expected to trust him for this important game. He has the skill to swing the ball and bowl at good speeds.
In the absence of Jansen, Vyshak role becomes more important. He may get the new ball and try to get an early breakthrough. If he bowls with discipline and control, it will give PBKS the upper hand in Qualifier 1.
Final Thoughts
Punjab Kings have a balanced and strong playing 11 for the Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The team has a good mix of Indian and overseas players, strong batters, quality all-rounders, and experienced bowlers. This match is expected to be a high-pressure contest, and PBKS will look to make full use of their form and momentum.
With in-form openers, a dependable middle order, and a smart bowling unit, Punjab Kings are well prepared for this big clash. All eyes will be on the Mullanpur ground when these two teams face off for a place in the final.
FAQs
Who are the openers for Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 vs RCB?
Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya are the openers for Punjab Kings. Both have been in good form and are expected to give a strong start.
Is Josh Inglis playing for PBKS in the Qualifier 1?
Yes, Josh Inglis is available and will play in the middle order. He recently scored a match-winning half-century against Mumbai Indians.
Why is Marco Jansen not in the playing 11 for PBKS?
Marco Jansen has joined the South African squad for the World Test Championship final, so he is not available for this match.
Who will lead the spin attack for PBKS in the absence of Yuzvendra Chahal?
Harpreet Brar will lead the spin bowling department. He can bowl in both powerplay and middle overs.
What is the venue for the Qualifier 1 between PBKS and RCB?
The Qualifier 1 match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be played in Mullanpur.
