On April 5, 2025, Rajasthan Royals (RR) delivered a commanding 50-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, handing the hosts their first defeat of the IPL 2025 season. The match showcased RR’s batting firepower and bowling precision, cementing their resurgence after a shaky start to the campaign.
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| Image Credits: ESPN Cricinfo |
Batting first after losing the toss, RR posted an imposing 205/4, becoming the first team to breach the 200-run mark at this venue in IPL history. Yashasvi Jaiswal led the charge with a fluent 67 off 45 balls, finding his rhythm after a lean patch. Captain Sanju Samson (38) and Riyan Parag (43*) provided vital support, with Parag’s late flourish proving decisive. PBKS’s Lockie Ferguson (2/37) was the pick of their bowlers, but they couldn’t stem the flow of runs.
In reply, PBKS crumbled under pressure from RR’s bowlers. Jofra Archer set the tone, dismissing Priyansh Arya and Shreyas Iyer early to finish with 3/25, earning Player of the Match honors. Sandeep Sharma (2/21) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/26) tightened the screws, restricting PBKS to 155/9. Nehal Wadhera’s gritty 62 off 41 was a lone bright spot for the hosts, but it wasn’t enough against RR’s relentless attack.
This win, RR’s second in a row, lifts them up the points table, while PBKS will rue missed opportunities at home. With Jaiswal back in form and Archer firing, RR look poised for a strong season ahead.
Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals - 205/4 in 20 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal - 67, Lockie Ferguson - 2/37) defeated Punjab Kings - 155/9 in 20 overs (Nehal Wadhera - 62, Jofra Archer - 3/25) by a margin of 50 runs
